Thomas Morstead, a professional football punter, began his NFL career when he was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Born on March 8, 1986, in Pearland, Texas, Morstead attended Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he played college football and honed his skills as a punter. His strong leg and precise punting ability caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection by the Saints.
Morstead's rookie season with the Saints was nothing short of remarkable. He played a crucial role in the team's journey to Super Bowl XLIV, where they faced the Indianapolis Colts. One of the most memorable moments of his career came during this game when he executed a perfectly placed onside kick, known as "Ambush," at the start of the second half. This unexpected play helped shift the momentum in favor of the Saints, ultimately contributing to their victory and securing the franchise's first Super Bowl title.
Throughout his tenure with the Saints, Morstead was known for his consistency and reliability as a punter. His ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory and his proficiency in handling high-pressure situations made him a valuable asset to the team. Over the years, he developed a reputation for his exceptional hang time and accuracy, often ranking among the league's best in various punting statistics.
Morstead's performance on the field earned him several accolades, including a Pro Bowl selection in 2012. He was also named a second-team All-Pro in the same year. His contributions to the Saints' special teams unit were widely recognized, and he became a fan favorite in New Orleans for his professionalism and community involvement.
In addition to his on-field achievements, Morstead was known for his philanthropic efforts. He established the "What You Give Will Grow" foundation, which focused on supporting children battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. His charitable work further endeared him to fans and the community, highlighting his commitment to making a positive difference off the field.
Morstead's career with the Saints spanned over a decade, during which he played in numerous playoff games and continued to be a reliable presence on special teams. However, in March 2021, the Saints released him as part of a salary cap move, marking the end of an era for both Morstead and the team.
Following his release from the Saints, Morstead signed with the New York Jets in September 2021. His time with the Jets was relatively short, as he was released in November of the same year. Shortly thereafter, he joined the Atlanta Falcons, where he finished the 2021 season. Despite the transitions, Morstead's professionalism and skill remained evident, and he continued to contribute effectively to his teams.
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