The Facts: Fifteen years to the date he signed with New Orleans, Brees has announced his retirement.

Diehards Line:"After 20 years as a player in the NFL and 15 years as a Saint, it is time I retire from the game of football. Each day, I poured my heart and soul into being your quarterback," Brees posted on his official Instagram account. "I am only retiring from playing football, I am not retiring from New Orleans. This is not goodbye, rather a new beginning. ..." The announcement isn't a surprise. ... A more detailed version of this story is now available HERE.