In a surprising and deeply reflective statement, New Orleans Saints icon Drew Brees revealed that despite his tremendous career earnings — reportedly over $270 million — he’s lived with a “broke” mindset since 1978.
“I’ve been broke since ’78,” Brees said in a recent interview. “It’s not about how much you make, it’s about how you carry yourself. That mindset has kept me humble all these years.”
Known for his precision on the field and his leadership off it, Brees stunned fans by sharing that financial appearances in the sports world are often misleading. “I don’t have money. You think athletes have money?” he said with a laugh. “It’s not what it looks like.”
Brees, who helped rebuild both the Saints and the spirit of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, explained that his upbringing taught him to be cautious with money and stay grounded, no matter the spotlight.
“I grew up learning the value of every dollar. Being raised in Texas and then finding my home in New Orleans, I’ve always stayed close to real people with real struggles. That shaped me,” he said.
Contrary to the glitz often associated with superstar quarterbacks, Brees admitted he never truly bought into the image. “Most of my watches? Fake. My diamonds? Cubic zirconia. I never needed to wear my bank account on my wrist.”
The confession comes as a surprise to many, who assumed Brees’ polished look and calm demeanor came with a high-end lifestyle. But the Super Bowl MVP says it was never about the money — it was always about legacy and character.
“I’ve seen players come and go, flash and fade. But the ones who last? They’re the ones who stay true to who they are — not what the world wants them to be.”
Brees emphasized that wealth can disappear in a moment, but values last forever. “I’ve always lived like I had nothing to lose. That’s what kept me focused and gave me the drive to lead, to win, and to give back.”
Now retired, Brees is still seen as a symbol of resilience and humility in New Orleans. His latest remarks have only deepened the respect fans have for him — not just as a player, but as a man of principle.
In a world chasing riches, Drew Brees remains a living legend who proves that true wealth is in humility, not headlines.
