Above you see pictured the following players that were on the Saints’ roster last year, but also helped them win a Super Bowl in 2009. They are: Reggie Bush (Dolphins), Jonathan Goodwin (49ers), Anthony Hargrove (Eagles), Darren Sharper (Free Agent), Heath Evans (Free Agent), and Remi Ayodele (Vikings). While Evans could come back, the Saints have publicly stated that’s unlikely, and while they haven’t ruled out a return from Sharper, I think it’s also pretty clear he’s not in their immediate plans.
With the shortened offseason, the news of these guys leaving broke pretty quickly…
and I don’t feel like they ever really got their deserved due. They all played a huge role in getting New Orleans a Super Bowl, and they were all big pieces to the roster. While I feel as good about the Saints’ roster as ever, I don’t want to move on from these names without giving them acknowledgement. Reggie Bush is arguably the most explosive player in Saints’ history, and he gave the team a huge lift when he was drafted 2nd overall, giving Katrina decimated fans reason for hope. Goodwin was an anchor in the offensive line, and a Pro Bowler last year. Hargrove was one of the best feel good stories in the league, coming back from addiction and a very checkered past to turn his life around and become a Super Bowl champion. Sharper resurrected his career with a 9 interception season (tied a career high) that landed him All Pro honors, a Pro Bowl invite, and he added a swagger to the defense that we hadn’t seen since the Dome Patrol. Heath Evans was a vocal leader, devastating lead blocker, a someone who really touched the New Orleans community in a big way. Finally, Remi Ayodele was a major reason for the vastly improved run defense.
Thank you #25, #76, #69, #42, #44, and #92. As far as I’m concerned you will always be WHO DATS and as a fan I want to communicate that we appreciate your service with the team greatly and you won’t be forgotten.
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