ESPN’s daily debate show, “First Take,” is a destination for hot takes from personalities like Stephen A. Smith and Dan Orlovsky. Following the recent departure of longtime host Molly Qerim, the show is shaking things up by adding a new, highly credible voice to its NFL discussions. The move brings a Super Bowl champion with a legendary football mind to the table, promising a fresh perspective on the league.
Who Is the Newest Star Joining ‘First Take’?
On Wednesday, news broke that Super Bowl champion Drew Brees will join “First Take” as an NFL contributor. Adam Zagoria of The New York Times shared the news in a post on X.
ESPN has reached an agreement with former NFL Quarterback Drew Brees to be a NFL contributor on First Take, per release
— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) September 24, 2025
Brees, who played his college football at Purdue, was a second-round pick of the then-San Diego Chargers in the 2001 NFL Draft. After playing his first five seasons with the Chargers, he began a historic run with the New Orleans Saints in 2006.
It was in New Orleans that Brees cemented his legacy, leading the Saints to their only Super Bowl victory, a 31-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl XLIV. Over his 20-season career, Brees amassed 80,358 passing yards and 571 touchdown passes, known for his incredible accuracy. The Austin, Texas native was also selected to the Pro Bowl 13 times and won two Associated Press Offensive Player of the Year awards.
By joining “First Take,” Brees will bring his extensive football knowledge to viewers. He recently shared some thoughts on the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense and quarterback Jalen Hurts, offering a preview of the insights he’ll provide.
What Does Brees Think About the Saints’ Division Chances?
Brees recently offered his thoughts on the New Orleans Saints’ outlook in the NFC South, stating simply that their goal should be to “Win the division.” He elaborated on why he believes the division is wide open.
“Why not?” Brees said about the Saints pulling off a division title. “Who scares you in the division right now? Atlanta really should have beat Tampa. They missed a field goal at the end that would have tied it and sent it to overtime. … Everybody’s got just as equal an opportunity as everybody else.”
However, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers currently have a strong grip on the NFC South, playing excellent football behind quarterback Baker Mayfield. If the Saints hope to win the division this season, they will need to address some on-field issues.
Still, with the 2025 NFL season in its early stages, anything can happen. That includes Brees’s former team making a run for a division championship.
