60 Heroes: A Big Name Steps Up in a Big Way 

As one of the league’s top quarterbacks, many may think Drew Brees would be more than happy to stay out of collective bargaining agreements, negotiations and lockouts.  But even as one of the biggest names in the NFL, Brees supports his union, fighting for his fellow players’ rights. 

Brees began his involvement with the NFLPA in 2004 as the Alternate Player Rep for the San Diego Chargers, the team that drafted Brees three years earlier.  The former Purdue QB’s role with the union only continued to grow from there.  He has served as both the Chargers’ and New Orleans Saints’ Player Rep and was a member of the NFLPA’s Executive Committee from 2008 to 2014, stepping down after the 2011 lockout to allow a younger player to take on the leadership position.  

When the Collective Bargaining Agreement expired in 2011 and the owners locked the players out, Brees was a vocal, outspoken leader at the forefront of negotiations.  In an attempt to enjoin the lockout as an antitrust violation, Brees, along with nine other NFL players, acted as one of the named plaintiffs in the so-called Brady case, and helped establish important legal precedent for the future. 

Many believe Brees put his career on the line with his active involvement in the lockout.  Prior to the 2012 season, the Saints and the quarterback who led them to a 2010 Super Bowl Championship were frozen in a contract impasse.  The NFLPA issued a formal request to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, asking the league to investigate whether the negotiations were in good faith or had been affected by Brees’ outspoken participation in the lockout the year prior.  New Orleans and their franchise quarterback eventually agreed on a long-term contract, but Brees’ dedication to the union and its members’ mission during this critical time was invaluable, as well as selfless. 

Although Brees has stepped down from the Executive Committee, he continues to remain vocal and active in support of his union.