Brees doesn’t let time restrict his expectations
METAIRIE, La.—If Drew Brees maintains his recent form through the bulk of this season, the record-setting Saints quarterback could wind up having one of his best years yet at the age of 39.
Brees’ completion rate is 80.6 percent through the first three games— high even by his standard.
But is it sustainable?
“I don’t see why not,” Brees said. “I mean, listen, it’s not easy.”
No, he’s just made it look that way. Brees began the season 78 completions behind Brett Favre’s record of 6,300 and needed barely more than two games to set a new mark—now 6,326 and counting. Brees has completed 104 of 129 passes for 1,078 yards and eight TDs with no interceptions.
This after he set the NFL record last season for completion rate at 72 percent.
And he’ll likely break Peyton Manning’s record of 71,940 yards passing within two more games. He’s 417 yards away from that mark.
While Brees is pleased by his statistical production, he said he measures his performance more by the quality of his decisions.
“I’ve always had a goal that I want to continue to get better each and every year. Sometimes you can’t always measure that,” Brees said, offering the example of how throwing the ball away shows up as an incompletion, but is markedly preferable to taking a sack or committing a turnover.
“There’s certain things stats don’t always show as to your true production,” Brees said. “I want to build confidence with my offense. I want to be in control of the huddle. I want to lead the huddle. I want to make those guys believe and get the best out of them.
“And I want to make great decisions when I have to opportunity— and then produce. So as long as I’m able to do those things, that’s what drives me.”
The bulk of Brees’ passes have gone to receiver Michael Thomas and to running back Alvin Kamara. It’s hard to argue with that decision-making. Both have made a number of clutch plays in New Orleans’ two victories, and even in their 48-40 loss to Tampa Bay— blame for which could hardly be pinned on New Orleans’ offense.