As Sports Illustrated Group Editor Terry McDonell put it, Drew Brees didn't win the Sportsman of the Year award because his admirable work is done. Rather, more is to come with Brees, he said. His artistry on the field is inseparable from his work off. All of which, McDonell said with undisguised astonishment, is genuine.
Brees, who brought his rebuilt shoulder to a city some thought would never rebuild after Hurricane Katrina and led the New Orleans Saints to a Super Bowl title last season, was named Sportsman of the Year last Tuesday.
"If you look at the oldest definition we have for the Sportsman of the Year -- that it's not only about victory but the quality of the effort -- then you see why Drew Brees is a brilliant choice," McDonell said. "There's something old-fashioned about Drew Brees. He's aware this honor is for him, but he's aware and we're all aware that this award is really for the city, too."
