Chuck Cook-Imagn Images

NFL Legend Drew Brees Announces Career News on Thursday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Dec 11, 2025 5:42 PM ET

Drew Brees is widely considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in the history of the NFL, playing most of his career with the New Orleans Saints.

Brees played 15 seasons with the Saints and five seasons with the Chargers before retiring from the NFL.

The former Purdue Boilermaker finished his NFL career with one Super Bowl championship, where he led the Saints in 2010 and he was also named an All-Pro quarterback and 13-time Pro Bowler.

Years after his retirement from the NFL, Brees' college alum decided to honor the former great.

On Thursday, Brees posted a photo with the official social media account of the NCAA, which states that Brees has been awarded the 2026 Silver Anniversary award.

"From Texas beginnings to a legacy that transcends the game," posted by Drew Brees and the NCAA. "@boilerfootball legend @drewbrees is the 2026 Silver Anniversary Award winner. Honoring his student-athlete experience shaping his leadership, discipline and purpose."

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Drew Brees ended his college football career as one of the best players in Purdue Boilermakers history, with some putting him atop the pedestal when it comes to the school's historic figures. Brees played for Purdue from 1997 to 2000.

He was then selected with the 32nd pick in the 2001 NFL draft.

Brees' connection with the Boilermakers goes as far as being an assistant coach at Purdue in 2022.

Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees on the field during an NFL gameMatthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Drew Brees will now go down in Purdue Boilermaker history after receiving the 2026 Silver Anniversary Award. The award is presented to former student-athletes celebrating the 25th anniversary of their college graduation and recognizing their achievement on and off the field.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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