Drew Brees has had a historic season under center with the Saints.
The veteran quarterback has the most career pass completions after moving past Brett Favre's previous mark of 6,300. He also set the all-time NFL record for passing yards.
The milestone (Brees is now at 73,908 passing yards) couldn't have been completed without a talented receiving corps through the years. Brees knows this, and upon breaking the previous record, he decided to give a special gift to the receivers that helped him along the way. Brees sent a customized game ball with every player’s name and the number of passes and yards they contributed to his record-setting career.
Retired fullback Mike Karney, who played for the Saints from 2004-08, tweeted a picture of his game ball saying, "I’m at a loss for words and can only say that it was a privilege and honor to be your teammate. You’re a class act brother and one of the greatest to ever do it!!!"
Thank you @drewbrees and @saints for this token of appreciation. I’m at a loss for words and can only say that it was a privilege and honor to be your teammate. You’re a class act brother and one of the greatest to ever do it!!! #Thankful 🙏🏼 #Salute ⚜️ pic.twitter.com/N5X5iJKdZ9
— Mike Karney (@Karney44) December 13, 2018
Brees also sent a note with each ball that read:
“On October 8, 2018, we were blessed to have become the National Football League’s all-time passing yardage leader. It is a tremendous honor, especially when one considers that some of the truly iconic figures of the NFL once held this mark. Names such as Fran Tarkenton, Brett Favre and most recently, Peyton Manning.
“I want to personally thank you for everything you did to be a part of the record-setting moment. Without your contribution, this milestone would not have happened. Although they only put one name in the record book, I want you to know that I consider you to be an important part of this record. I was truly blessed and honored to be your teammate. Please accept this small token of my appreciation for everything you have done to help accomplish this milestone. I appreciate the time, dedication and commitment you sacrificed in order to make this record a reality. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey.”
Balls were also sent to linemen who blocked for him.