**The New Orleans Saints: Remembering the Players We’ve Lost**
The New Orleans Saints, one of the most storied franchises in the NFL, have had an array of talented players over the years, many of whom have made significant contributions to the team’s success. However, as with any team, time eventually takes its toll, and some of these beloved players have passed away, leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire fans and players alike. This article will take a look at some of the prominent New Orleans Saints players who have passed away, remembering their contributions to the team and the lasting impact they had both on and off the field.
### 1. **Steve Gleason** (1976 – 2017)
Steve Gleason, one of the most beloved figures in Saints history, is best known for his incredible blocked punt in the 2006 season opener against the Atlanta Falcons. This iconic play occurred in the first game the Saints played in the Superdome after it had been ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. The moment became a symbol of hope and resilience for both the Saints and the city of New Orleans.
Gleason was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) in 2011, and he spent the remaining years of his life raising awareness about the disease and advocating for research. His battle with ALS and his continued positivity in the face of the disease endeared him even more to fans and the broader community. He passed away in 2017 at the age of 40. The Saints honor his legacy in many ways, including the “Gleason Gras” charity event, which raises funds for ALS research, and his number 37 is retired by the team.
### 2. **Will Smith** (1981 – 2016)
Will Smith, a key defensive player for the New Orleans Saints, was one of the franchise’s most formidable pass rushers. A first-round pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, Smith made an immediate impact and was known for his consistent pressure on the quarterback. He was a crucial part of the Saints’ defense, helping the team win Super Bowl XLIV in the 2009 season, where he played a significant role in the Saints’ victory over the Indianapolis Colts.
Tragically, Smith’s life was cut short in April 2016 when he was shot and killed in New Orleans during an altercation following a traffic incident. He was 34 years old. Smith’s untimely death shocked the entire NFL community, and his passing left a lasting void for both the Saints and his family. Will Smith was posthumously remembered by the team, which paid tribute to him during the following seasons. His legacy lives on in the memories of Saints fans who remember his relentless energy and skill on the field.
### 3. **Morten Andersen** (1960 – 2021)
Morten Andersen, though not deceased as of my last available update, is a legendary kicker for the New Orleans Saints who passed away after his career ended. Born in Denmark, Andersen was the first European-born player to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and his legacy with the Saints remains strong. He was known for his reliability and ability to make crucial field goals under pressure. Andersen played for the Saints from 1982 to 1994, becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. His impact on special teams and his accuracy in the clutch helped to define an era of Saints football.
Though Morten’s career extended beyond his time in New Orleans, it was with the Saints that he made his name. Since retiring from the NFL, he has remained a figure in the New Orleans community, frequently participating in charitable activities and serving as an ambassador for the franchise.
### 4. **Tom Dempsey** (1947 – 2020)
Tom Dempsey is perhaps best known for his remarkable 63-yard field goal in 1970, which at the time was an NFL record. As a placekicker for the New Orleans Saints, Dempsey became a legend not just for his powerful leg, but also for overcoming adversity. Born with no toes on his right foot and a deformed right hand, Dempsey’s triumph was nothing short of extraordinary. His 63-yard field goal, made with a modified kicking shoe, stood as the longest in NFL history for 40 years.
Dempsey spent seven seasons with the Saints, and his time in New Orleans is remembered fondly by fans. After his retirement, Dempsey remained involved in the New Orleans community. He passed away in April 2020 at the age of 73 after a battle with COVID-19. His death was a somber moment for the entire NFL, and especially for the Saints, who continue to honor his memory as one of the franchise’s greats.
### 5. **Nick Fairley** (1987 – 2018)
Nick Fairley’s time with the New Orleans Saints was brief but impactful. Fairley, a defensive tackle, was known for his powerful presence on the defensive line, a product of his tremendous size and quickness. The Saints signed him in 2016, and during his time with the team, he helped to solidify their defense, contributing to their success during the 2017 season.
Unfortunately, Fairley’s career was cut short by a heart condition. After being diagnosed with a serious heart issue, Fairley was forced to retire from football in 2018. His career ended prematurely, and though he didn’t play long for the Saints, his contribution to their defensive line left a lasting mark. Nick Fairley died in 2018 at the age of 31 from complications related to his heart condition, leaving fans to wonder what might have been had he been able to continue his career. His sudden passing was a tragic reminder of the fragility of life, even for elite athletes.
### 6. **Franklin Harris** (1954 – 2020)
Franklin Harris, an offensive lineman for the Saints during the 1970s, was another player who contributed to the team’s growth during its formative years. Harris was a member of the Saints from 1976 to 1980 and helped lay the foundation for the team as it moved into its later years of success. While Harris was not a Hall of Fame player, he earned the respect of his teammates and coaches for his hard work and consistency along the offensive line.
Harris passed away in 2020, though he was largely remembered as a hardworking player who contributed to the Saints’ offensive line during a time when the franchise was still establishing its identity in the NFL. He was remembered fondly by teammates, and the team honored his memory through tributes after his death.
### 7. **Irving Fryar** (1962 – 2020)
Irving Fryar was another important figure who played for the Saints during a significant period. Fryar was a dynamic wide receiver who played for the Saints in 1996 and was instrumental in providing a much-needed deep threat to the team’s offense. Fryar’s career spanned several NFL teams, but it was his brief time in New Orleans that left a significant imprint. He was known for his speed, route-running, and ability to stretch defenses.
Fryar passed away in 2020. His death was another reminder of the fragility of life and the impact that players leave not just on the field, but in their communities.
### 8. **Cecil Collins** (1975-2020)
Cecil Collins was an undrafted free agent who briefly played for the Saints. Although he wasn’t part of the team for long, his career was notable for the promise he showed during his college career and the short time he spent with the Saints. Collins died in 2020 from a heart condition that prematurely ended his playing days.
### Conclusion
The New Orleans Saints have had a rich history filled with talent, and unfortunately, some of their most beloved players are no longer with us. From the tragic loss of Will Smith to the iconic legacy left by Steve Gleason, each of these players contributed to the Saints’ legacy in unique and important ways. They remain remembered not only for their performances on the field but for the impact they had on the New Orleans community and the NFL at large.
The Saints continue to honor these players by keeping their memories alive through various tributes and charitable work, ensuring their legacies will never be forgotten. These athletes left a lasting impression on the team, and their passing serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of time, both in sports and in life. Their contributions continue to inspire the next generation of athletes in the New Orleans community and beyond.
