What happened: Drew Brees is one of five members of the Hall of Fame's Class of 2026. He earned election in his first year of eligibility.
Why it matters: Brees and Payton joined New Orleans in 2006 and reached the NFC championship game that season. Their selection began a partnership that lasted through the 2020 season.
By the numbers: Brees and Payton went 144-85 across the regular season and playoffs, tied for the second-most wins by a head coach-starting quarterback pairing.
What to watch: Brees will be enshrined Aug. 8 in Canton. His Saints ring ceremony will follow during the 2026 season.