Steve Gleason
The safety who anchored a dynasty and became an enduring symbol of resilience.
Steve Gleason is synonymous with the modern identity and resilience of the New Orleans Saints. A five-round draft pick who became a cornerstone safety, his playing career was defined by grit, loyalty to one franchise, and special teams excellence. Beyond the gridiron, he transformed personal tragedy into global advocacy, becoming a beacon for ALS research.
- Position
- Safety
- Team
- New Orleans Saints
- Career Span
- 2003–2010
- Super Bowl Victory
- XLIV
- Honors
- Walter Payton Man of the Year (2013)
Lore & Background
On the field, Gleason was known for his physicality and special teams prowess during the team's ascent to the NFC Championship. He was integral to the defense that propelled New Orleans to Super Bowl XLIV glory against the Indianapolis Colts in the 2009 season. Off the field, his diagnosis with ALS in July 2011 shocked the NFL world but did not break him. Instead, he rallied the city of New Orleans behind a cause greater than football, founding the Gleason 7 Foundation to support research and families affected by the disease.
In Their Own Story
The noise of the Superdome fades into memory as the confetti settles on the turf. Gleason stands amidst his brothers in arms, the Lombardi Trophy heavy in hand, celebrating a victory that healed a city. Years later, though his legs no longer carry him to the line of scrimmage, his voice carries further than any interception ever could. He watches from a wheelchair, the green and gold still draped over his shoulders, knowing his fight has changed into something far more important than a win-loss record.
Reader's Guide
The era defined by Steve Gleason coincides with the Saints' dramatic resurgence under head coach Sean Payton and quarterback Drew Brees. This period transformed the franchise from perennial underdogs into a championship-contending powerhouse in the NFC South. Gleason represents the blue-collar toughness required to build that defensive foundation during their ascent. His subsequent public battle with ALS cemented his status as a cultural icon beyond just sports, proving that the team's spirit extends far beyond the final whistle of a game. The club’s identity is now intrinsically tied not just to victories on the scoreboard, but to how they support their own through profound adversity. This chapter matters because it humanized the franchise during its most successful decade in history, linking championship success with deep community compassion. For fans, Gleason embodies the resilience required to rebuild after Hurricane Katrina and the strength needed to face life-altering challenges without losing hope.
Did You Know?
- Gleason played his entire NFL career for the Saints from 2003 to 2010.
- He was diagnosed with ALS shortly after retiring in 2011.
- He won the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 2013.
- His foundation is named Gleason 7, referencing his jersey number.