Drew Brees is still very close with the Saints. Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

It’s no secret that Drew Brees has a great affinity for the Saints and the city of New Orleans. However, few might have known just how strong Brees’ ties to the organization remain.

Brees, now an analyst for NBC, appeared on “The Dan Patrick Show” Friday and revealed just how closely he keeps in touch with the Saints. He admitted he is in regular contact with quarterbacks Jameis Winston and Taysom Hill, and when pressed, he even revealed how much he knew about what the Saints planned to do against the Green Bay Packers in Week 1.

“I’m in touch with (Winston) and Taysom quite a bit throughout training camp, preseason, and during the season,” Brees said.

The quarterback then had a telling response when asked by Patrick if he was an unofficial assistant coach.

“I will say this: I did have the game plan for the game in my hand,” Brees admitted.

The game plan worked, as the Saints beat the Packers 38-3, so if Brees gave any input, it certainly didn’t hurt.

It’s always an issue when players go directly to the broadcast booth, as some will inevitably accuse them of bias relating to the team with which they closely indentify. That hasn’t been a problem for another prominent ex-quarterback, and Brees seems willing to fill the same role. Nevertheless, Brees might have to be a little bit careful if he ever has to work a Saints game considering how much information he still appears to get.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Watch: Tyrese Maxey saves Sixers' season with two huge shots
LeBron James takes to social media to address rumors about Lakers future
Watch: Maple Leafs stay alive thanks to OT winner by Matthew Knies
Rams sign longtime Eagles running back
Game 5 status revealed for injured Bucks stars Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard
Mike Trout's career hits another major hurdle with latest injury
Maple Leafs without Auston Matthews for Game 5 vs. Bruins
Broncos make unsurprising decision on new QB Zach Wilson
Jaguars cut key receiver from past two years
Report suggests Kevin Durant reuniting with former team isn't 'far-fetched'
Key Senators defenseman expected to undergo wrist surgery
Blue Jays place RHP on injured list
Watch: Tigers' Jack Flaherty ties AL record by striking out first seven batters
Report hints when NFL could move to a 18-game regular season
Shedeur Sanders responds to ex-Colorado player who criticized Deion
Astros to option former MVP
Jaguars to decline recently acquired QB's fifth-year option
Jerod Mayo shares if Bill Belichick would've traded Patriots' Drake Maye pick
Magic Johnson: 22-win team will 'definitely' be in playoffs next season
Bears' Jaylon Johnson clarifies 'Hollywood' comment about Caleb Williams