Drew Brees didn’t just break records on the turf—he dominated off it too. Whatever the arena, he showed up and took over. In 2018, Drew Brees broke Peyton Manning’s all-time passing yards record on Monday Night Football with a 62-yard touchdown strike against the Commanders. The game stopped. He rushed to the sideline, hugged his kids, and whispered, “You can accomplish anything in life if you’re willing to work for it.” That mic’d-up moment wasn’t just history—it was heart. A father, a leader, a legend. Since hanging up his cleats in 2021, the Saints QB has chased even bigger dreams, proving his impact stretches far beyond the gridiron.
Fast forward to now and Drew Brees is back—this time not with a football, but a paddle. In a new reel with the NOLA Pickle Fest and the Brees Dream Foundation, he announced the return of their third annual pickleball tournament. And it’s bringing the heat. “Our 3rd annual NOLA Pickle Fest is right around the corner!” Brees posted on Instagram. “Registration is open and spots are still available… The match is going to be epic!”
The highlight? Tennis legend Andre Agassi will join the fest as the celebrity guest. Known for his 21-year pro career and unmatched trophy shelf—8 Grand Slam titles, a Career Golden Slam, and Olympic gold—Agassi adds serious star power to the lineup. The reel shows high-energy rallies, glowing faces, and a vibe that screams: game on.
It all goes down August 6–10, 2025—and no, this isn’t just another backyard showdown with paddles and plastic balls. We’re talking PickleRoll courts, live music, VIP experiences, and a celebrity match. The tournament will have three divisions: women’s doubles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles for skill levels 3.0 to 5.0+. Featured matches take place on center court with grandstand seating. VIPs enjoy views from Kern Studio Mardi Gras floats.
That’s not the only highlight reel of Drew Brees. The retired Saints’ QB still has his interest in the locker room, especially their new QB.
Tyler Shough is “big, strong, tough,” says Drew Brees
Drew Brees isn’t just any retired quarterback—he’s second all-time in NFL passing yards and touchdowns. So when he speaks on quarterback talent, people listen. His reviews of the 25-year-old QB are glowing. “I’ve seen what the fans have seen,” Brees said at the opening of Surge Entertainment in Metairie. “I haven’t really dove deep to take a look at his college film. I think what’s impressive to me is, the kid has faced a lot of adversity and he’s overcome it every step of the way.”
Shough’s journey hasn’t been easy. He spent time at Oregon, Texas Tech, and Louisville. Brees highlighted his year under Louisville coach Jeff Brohm—someone he respects for grooming quarterbacks like Aidan O’Connell. “He’s kind of known as one of those guys who can develop QBs,” Brees noted. “And obviously, Tyler Shough really thrived in that offense with him last year.”
Tyler Shough shows serious upside as a pocket passer with a strong arm and vertical threat. Scouts praise his ability to drive the ball deep downfield. But some worry about his lower body mechanics and quick-release game. His age and past injuries also raise red flags. Last season, he earned Comeback Player of the Year honors from the College Sports Communicators and the Associated Press. His performance showed grit and poise, like a true clutch QB making big plays under pressure.
Brees recently told Sharief Ishaq from WDSU that Tyler Shough reminds him of Taysom Hill. It’s not their playing style but their college struggles that connect them. Brees said, “You know, honestly, a lot of similarities to Taysom Hill. Taysom Hill was one of those guys coming out of college who would spend four or five years in college.” He added, “Had some major injuries but man when he played, played really, really well.”
With Derek Carr’s sudden retirement, the Saints’ QB room is wide open. Shough, the team’s second-round pick, is battling Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. Both Rattler and Haener have limited NFL experience, and now undrafted rookie Hunter Dekkers is in the mix too. Brees added, “Competitions bring out the best in everybody. I’m sure Kellen’s excited to mold these guys.”
“We’ll see how this thing shakes out.” Both Brees and the NFL franchise have their eyes glued on the QB for now.
The post Drew Brees Announces New Project With Tennis Legend Who Won All 4 Grand Slams appeared first on EssentiallySports.
