NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees will be officially inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame on Thursday (October 17) during halftime of the Saints game against the Denver Broncos, coached by none other than former Saints head coach Sean Payton.

Prior to his induction, Brees was honored at a Hall of Fame luncheon, where hundreds of people gathered to pay tribute to the legendary quarterback’s 15-year career in New Orleans.

During his tenure, Brees earned twelve Pro Bowl appearances, led the team to nine playoff appearances, three NFC Championship appearances and captured a Super Bowl victory in the Superdome in 2010.

“Your arrival in New Orleans in 2006 marked the beginning of a new era for our franchise,” Saints owner Gayle Benson said during the luncheon.

Brees holds multiple records with the Saints, including most games played and most passing yards.

“He gave us all hope and gave everyone hope to get the city back to what it is today,” former Saints player Jimmy Graham said at the event.

During his speech, Brees reflected on the honor of becoming a member of the Saints Hall of Fame after watching many of his former teammates be inducted years earlier.

“It was a joy and it reminds you why we play this game… to be the best and bring home championships,” he said.

SACRED SHORT LINES

The lunch also featured a surprise appearance by Sean Payton, who coached Brees throughout his time in New Orleans. Payton, now the head coach of the Denver Broncos, made a quick appearance before getting ready for tonight’s game against the Saints.

“Let’s face it, enough pleasantries, we’ll see you in about four hours,” Payton joked.