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Drew Brees wasn’t just any quarterback. The Chargers snagged him in the second round back in 2001, but it was his free-agent move to New Orleans in 2006 that changed NFL history. For 15 unforgettable seasons, Brees made the Big Easy his home, piling up passing stats that only the great Tom Brady has managed to surpass in NFL history.
When the Saints drafted Terron Armstead in the third round from Arkansas-Pine Bluff in 2013, they found a cornerstone. The offensive tackle protected Brees’ blindside for eight seasons until the legendary QB hung up his cleats after the 2020 campaign. Armstead stayed one more year in New Orleans before taking his talents to South Beach with the Miami Dolphins in 2022.
Brees reflects on Armstead’s impact
After 12 seasons in the NFL — including his final three years with Miami — Armstead called it a career this week. His former quarterback didn’t hesitate to share what made the big man so special.
Drew Brees giving a tribute to the leader Terron Armstead was for the Saints pic.twitter.com/magL2gtK8m
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) April 6, 2025
Despite his elite talent, Armstead fought an ongoing battle with injuries. He never once played a complete season in his career. During his Dolphins tenure, he missed 13 regular-season contests over three years — though he did suit up when it mattered most, starting both playoff losses to Buffalo (2022) and Kansas City (2023).
The talent was undeniable.
Armstead’s trophy case includes five Pro Bowl selections — three with the Saints and two with Miami. His retirement didn’t shock many NFL insiders, especially after he restructured his contract in February to help Miami’s salary cap situation. It was typical Armstead — putting the team first even on his way out.
The Dolphins will certainly miss his presence. In 2023, Armstead started 15 games under Mike McDaniel and ranked as the fourth-best tackle in the league according to Pro Football Focus. Miami tried to prepare for this moment by drafting Houston tackle Patrick Paul in the second round last April. Now Paul faces the daunting task of replacing not just an elite player, but a locker room leader who made everyone around him better.
