Offensive lineman Zach Strief arrived in New Orleans in 2006, as a seventh-round pick. Twelve seasons later, Strief is retiring.
He announced his decision during a Monday press conference.
After starting all 16 games in 2016, Strief’s final season was limited to two games, due to a knee injury.
Other than Drew Brees, Strief is the only player who has been with the team since Sean Payton became the head coach. Strief’s retirement comes at a time when Brees, in theory, could be negotiating a contract with a new team.
And it was when discussing Brees that Strief became the most emotional during the press conference, discussing the quarterback’s work ethic and leadership.