The New Orleans Saints and NFL are commemorating the Saints return to New Orleans and the Superdome in 2006 during Monday night's game against the Falcons.
After Hurricane Katrina devastated the city and the Superdome, the Saints had to play the entire 2005 season in other venues. There was speculation the team could move to San Antonio or elsewhere. Finally, on September 25, 2026, the Saints returned.
Monday features the commemoration of that night.
"Twenty years after one of the most unforgettable nights in New Orleans sports history, the Saints are bringing the city back to where it all happened," the Saints said in a news release. "On Monday Night Football, the Caesars Superdome will come alive with the music, memories and moments that defined Sept. 25, 2006, when the Saints returned home and the Dome roared once again."
That night featured unforgettable performances from U2 and Green Day with Irma Thomas, Trombone Shorty and others.
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The Saints say that Monday night fans will celebrate alongside Saints legends, hometown music icons and Team Gleason in a special anniversary tribute.
The team says it will be "honoring a night that transcended football and united an entire community."
The Saints bring back members of the 2006 team that would not only win that game, but go on to the most successful season to that point in Saints history. They made it all the way to the NFC Championship, just one win from the Super Bowl.
The night will also include "legendary New Orleans musicians and a tribute to Team Gleason, all set against the backdrop of Monday Night Football inside the Caesars Superdome."
They encourage fans to arrive early as Champions Square opens at 4:00pm.
"Prior to kickoff, Grammy Award-winning New Orleans music icon Irma Thomas will join rising local artist River Eckert for a special performance of the National Anthem, airing live on ESPN."
Then at halftime, there will be a special presentation.
"Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue will headline a New Orleans-sized Meta Halftime celebration featuring special guests Eric Church, Kirk Franklin, Juvenile, Cyril Neville and Ivan Neville."
The Saints will also honor Steve Gleason and Curtis Deloatch as "Legends of the Game."
On the first drive of the game, Gleason blocked a Falcons punt and Deloatch recovered it for a touchdown.
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"That helped ignite the Saints' 23-3 victory over the Atlanta Falcons and delivered one of the most iconic moments in franchise history."
That was also the first time fans in the Superdome would see new Saints quarterback Drew Brees, Coach Sean Payton, running back Reggie Bush and so many more of the men who would later go on to help bring a Super Bowl victory to the Saints.
"Twenty years later, that night remains woven into the fabric of New Orleans. From the players and the music to the iconic blocked punt and thunderous crowd, it is a moment etched in the memories of generations of Saints fans. On Monday night, the Saints will come together to celebrate that legacy and the lasting impact of one of the most unforgettable moments in franchise history."
