27 days until Saints season opener: Every player to wear No. 27
A Look at No. 27: The Saints' History With a Key Jersey
The countdown is on: Just 27 days remain until the New Orleans Saints kick off their season against the Arizona Cardinals. Isaac Yiadom, back in the black and gold after a year with the San Francisco 49ers, is sporting No. 27, a number he wore during his first stint in New Orleans. He's poised to play a key role in the team's revamped secondary.
But Yiadom isn't the first to wear this particular jersey.
A Legacy of Talent in No. 27
From Walter "Flea" Roberts, who burst onto the scene as one of the Saints' first stars, to Malcolm Jenkins, a future Hall-of-Famer and Super Bowl champion, No. 27 has been donned by a diverse group of talented players.
Roberts, though only playing one season (13 games) in New Orleans, left an indelible mark. He racked up 384 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns, including a 96-yard play that still ranks second longest in franchise history. His highlight reel moment came against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he scored on a kickoff return, fumble return, and reception – all within five touches – sealing a historic 31-24 victory, the Saints' first ever win.
Rod McNeill became the first drafted player to wear No. 27 in 1974. He spent two seasons as a backup running back, racking up 498 total yards and 5 touchdowns. Ray Brown followed McNeill, recording 7 interceptions and 3 fumble recoveries during his three-year stint.
The Defensive Legacy
Antonio Gibson's four years wearing No. 27 saw him contribute to the legendary "Dome Patrol" units of the late 1980s and early 1990s. He recorded 3 interceptions in mostly backup and special teams roles. Reggie Jones, another defensive back who wore No. 27 from 1991-1994, contributed 6 interceptions during his four years with the team.
Offensive Contributions Rise
Aaron Stecker broke through as a significant offensive contributor for the Saints in No. 27. From 2004 to 2008, he primarily served as a fullback, but amassed 2,017 yards and 8 touchdowns. He is one of only two offensive players who have made a meaningful impact wearing No. 27 for the Saints. Dwayne Washington wore No. 27 during his four years with New Orleans, contributing on both offense and special teams.
Malcolm Jenkins: A Legend in Black and Gold
Malcolm Jenkins' two separate stints with the Saints, both while wearing No. 27, solidified him as a franchise legend. He holds the record for most games played in No. 27 (103) and is considered one of the best safeties in Saints history. Drafted 14th overall in 2009, Jenkins was instrumental in the Saints' Super Bowl XLIV victory as a rookie and continued to be a defensive leader throughout his seven seasons with the team. He recorded 10 interceptions (returning 3 for touchdowns), forced 8 fumbles (recovering 5, returning one for a touchdown), and consistently ranked among the team leaders in tackles.
A New Chapter: Isaac Yiadom's Return
Jenkins' legacy continues to inspire players like Alontae Taylor, Shemar Jean-Charles, and now Isaac Yiadom. Yiadom's 2023 performance, where he emerged as a key player due to injuries, earned him the recognition of fans and analysts alike. He broke up 14 passes, recorded an interception, and held opposing quarterbacks to under a 49% completion rate when targeted.
Iyadom returned to the Saints this offseason on a three-year contract and is expected to be a starting cornerback in 2025. He carries the weight of tradition with him, ready to add his own chapter to the legacy of No. 27 for the New Orleans Saints.