The New Orleans Saints have built a legacy of high-octane offense, filled with dynamic playmakers across generations. This list celebrates the greatest offensive weapons in team history, ranking them based on their stats, accolades, and impact. Here’s the definitive ranking of the Saints’ Top 15 Weapons, backed by their numbers and contributions to the franchise.
1. Drew Brees
No player has defined the New Orleans Saints like Drew Brees. The franchise’s all-time leading passer, Brees threw for 68,010 yards and 491 touchdowns, both records that rank among the best in NFL history (Pro Football Reference). Under his leadership, the Saints won their first Super Bowl (XLIV) in 2009, and he became the face of a team that transitioned from perennial underdog to consistent contender. Brees’ unparalleled accuracy (68.8% career completion rate) and football IQ made him the engine of one of the most potent offenses in NFL history. His impact transcends statistics, cementing him as one of the all-time greats in NFL history.
2. Alvin Kamara
Alvin Kamara is a versatile phenom who recently became the Saints’ all-time leading rusher with 6,611 yards (Canal Street Chronicles). Kamara’s 60 rushing touchdowns and 46 receiving touchdowns rank him as one of the most productive dual-threat backs in NFL history. His Christmas Day 2020 performance, where he scored six touchdowns, showcased his dominance and ability to take over games. With five Pro Bowl selections from 2017-2021, Kamara has consistently been one of the most feared offensive players in the league.
3. Jimmy Graham
During his prime, Jimmy Graham was virtually unstoppable. The 6’7” tight end recorded 55 receiving touchdowns and 4,791 yards during his Saints tenure (Pro Football Reference). His 2013 season was historic, with 1,215 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns, making him the top red-zone target in the league. Graham redefined what it meant to be a tight end, often lining up as a receiver and creating mismatches that defenses couldn’t solve. His contributions to the Saints’ high-powered offenses of the 2010s make him a franchise legend.
4. Michael Thomas
Michael Thomas, also known as “Can’t Guard Mike,” set an NFL record with 149 receptions in 2019, earning him the NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award (Pro Football Reference). That season, Thomas also led the league in receiving yards (1,725) and receptions per game (107.8). His three Pro Bowls and two All-Pro selections (2018, 2019) highlight his peak dominance. While injuries have hampered recent years, Thomas’ career 6,566 receiving yards and 36 touchdowns firmly establish him as one of the Saints’ all-time greats.
5. Marques Colston
Marques Colston, the Saints’ all-time leader in receiving yards (9,759) and touchdowns (72), was the epitome of consistency during his decade-long career (Pro Football Reference). Known as “The Quiet Storm,” Colston thrived as Drew Brees’ most reliable target, especially in clutch situations. Despite never making a Pro Bowl, his production speaks for itself, ranking among the top receivers of his era. Colston’s contributions were pivotal in the Saints’ Super Bowl XLIV run and their sustained success during his tenure.
6. Mark Ingram
Mark Ingram, the Saints’ former all-time leading rusher, finished his Saints career with 6,500 rushing yards and 52 touchdowns (Pro Football Reference). A two-time Pro Bowler, Ingram was a model of consistency and toughness, thriving as both a lead back and in committee roles. His career-best season came in 2017 when he rushed for 1,124 yards and 12 touchdowns. Ingram’s leadership, energy, and connection with fans made him a cornerstone of the franchise during his tenure.
7. Deuce McAllister
Deuce McAllister was the heart and soul of the Saints during his nine-year career, rushing for 6,096 yards and 49 touchdowns (Pro Football Reference). His bruising running style and ability to carry the offense during tough seasons earned him two Pro Bowl selections. McAllister’s playoff performance, particularly during the Saints’ first NFC Championship appearance in 2006, further cemented his legacy. His longevity and leadership make him one of the most beloved players in franchise history.
8. Pierre Thomas
Pierre Thomas might be the most underrated player on this list, with 3,745 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns in his Saints career (Pro Football Reference). Known as the “Screen Pass King,” Thomas perfected the art of turning short passes into big plays, adding another 2,608 receiving yards to his resume. His iconic touchdown in the 2009 NFC Championship game is one of the greatest plays in franchise history. Thomas’ knack for clutch performances helped the Saints capture their first Super Bowl.
9. Joe Horn
Joe Horn brought swagger and production to the Saints, recording 7622 receiving yards and 50 touchdowns during his tenure (Pro Football Reference). A four-time Pro Bowler, Horn was the face of the franchise during the early 2000s. Known for his iconic cell phone celebration, Horn’s passion and skill made him one of the best receivers in team history.
10. Taysom Hill
Taysom Hill is one of the most unique players in NFL history, combining roles as quarterback, rusher, receiver, and blocker. His 33 rushing touchdowns rank 5th in franchise history (Pro Football Reference). Known for his power and versatility, Hill excels in goal-line and short-yardage situations. His Swiss Army Knife role has made him invaluable to the Saints’ offense.
11. Reggie Bush
Reggie Bush electrified fans with his highlight-reel runs and receiving ability, recording 2,090 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns (Pro Football Reference). Bush’s versatility and big-play ability were instrumental in the Saints’ 2009 Super Bowl run. While his rushing totals aren’t among the team’s highest, his contributions as a returner and receiver add to his legacy.
12. Morten Andersen
Morten Andersen is the Saints’ all-time leading scorer with 1,318 points (Pro Football Reference). Known as “The Great Dane,” Andersen was one of the most reliable kickers in NFL history, earning six Pro Bowl selections with the Saints. His contributions during close games and bad seasons made him indispensable.
13. Eric Martin
Eric Martin was the Saints’ go-to receiver during the late 1980s and early 90s, recording 7,854 receiving yards and 48 touchdowns (Pro Football Reference). His consistency as a possession receiver was pivotal to the team’s success during its first playoff appearances.
14. Michael Lewis (“Beer Man”)
Michael Lewis electrified fans with his returns, amassing 7,285 total return yards in his Saints career (Pro Football Reference). A former beer truck driver, Lewis became a Pro Bowler in 2002 and one of the greatest return specialists in NFL history.
15. Lance Moore
Lance Moore’s 4281 yards and 38 touchdowns make him one of the most reliable receivers in Saints history (Pro Football Reference). His iconic two-point conversion in Super Bowl XLIV cements his legacy as a clutch performer.
This ranking honors the incredible players who have defined the Saints’ success. Who do you think deserves to climb higher?
