After Monday night’s game against the Washington Redskins, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees broke Peyton Manning’s record to become the all-time leader in passing yardage.
A touchdown pass to Tre’Quan Smith put the Saints at a 26-6 lead in the second quarter and officially put Brees in the record books.
The pass that put Brees in the history books 💪
(via @thecheckdown)pic.twitter.com/htUIfNNMwY
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 9, 2018
Undoubtedly, his stunning performance impressed millions of fans, but it was what the quarterback said after the game to his children that really shows the stand-up role model that Brees is.
Following the record-breaking game, a reporter asked the father of four what he told his children that night.
“What has resonated so much with the folks watching was what you said to your kids,” said ESPN reporter Lisa Salters. “Do you remember what you even said to them?”
“Well it’s probably what I tell them every night before they go to bed,” Brees replied with a smile, “which is you can accomplish anything in life you’re willing to work for. Nothing’s given, everything’s earned. God has equipped us for great works,” he continued tearfully. “I tell them that every night.”
.@saltersl asked @drewbrees if he remembers what he said to his kids after breaking the record.
“It’s probably what I tell them every night before they go to bed, which is … you can accomplish anything in life if you’re willing to work for it.” pic.twitter.com/boub15kcOh
— ESPN (@espn) October 9, 2018
On top of being an inspiring man of faith, Brees continues to be a shining example on and off the field. He’s also currently on pace to break Peyton Manning’s touchdown record.
Manning sent a hilarious congratulatory video to the Saints legend, first mildly venting, and then sincerely offering his words of praise.
“Drew, for a thousand days I’ve held the record for all-time passing yards in the NFL,” Manning says as he chops tomatoes. “I gotta tell ya, it has been the greatest one-thousand days of my life. And thanks to you, that’s over now. You’ve ruined that for me.”
“So, thank you very much,” Manning jokingly continues. “I have nothing left to look forward to except slicing my tomatoes making dinner for my family, putting together this wedge salad. Also, let this serve as a congratulations for the touchdown record because as you can see I’m very busy. I don’t have time to keep doing these videos for you congratulating you.”
Congratulations, @drewbrees!
Peyton Manning’s really happy you broke his record.
Well … kind of. 🤣 pic.twitter.com/aUxXIDFzI8
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) October 9, 2018
Manning then offers a sincere congratulations while holding up an old photo of Brees and himself, dating back to Manning’s third year in the NFL.
“But in all seriousness, Drew, congratulations on this record,” adds Manning. “You’ve done it the right way. All your hard work and dedication have paid off… Way to go. Proud of ya. Good luck the rest of the way.”
Congrats to Brees, and may God continue to be glorified both on and off the football field!