Steve Gleason NFL Career Stats and Achievements
Steve Gleason played safety and special teams for the New Orleans Saints from 2000 to 2008, compiling 280 tackles, 18 interceptions, and 17 fumble recoveries over 144 regular-season games. His most iconic moment came in the 2006 season opener, when he blocked a punt in the Saints' first home game after Hurricane Katrina, a play widely credited with energizing the franchise and the city of New Orleans. Gleason was later diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2011, and his resilience has become a central part of his public legacy, documented in the film "Gleason" and his memoir "Second Man." He was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2024 for his advocacy and service, cementing his status as one of the most respected figures in NFL history Congressional Gold Medal details.
In terms of advanced metrics, Gleason's career coverage grades and special teams impact placed him among the top defensive contributors on the Saints during their 2000s resurgence. His 2006 season saw him record 34 tackles and two interceptions, while his 2007 campaign included 32 tackles and a critical forced fumble in a playoff win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Gleason's blocking punt on September 17, 2006, remains one of the most replayed moments in NFL highlight history, frequently cited in discussions of the greatest special teams plays of the modern era Steve Gleason Pro Football Reference page.
Steve Gleason Financial Overview and ALS Advocacy
Steve Gleason's net worth is estimated in the low millions, derived from his NFL career earnings, post-career media appearances, and his role as a public advocate for ALS research. His primary financial focus has been on Team Gleason, a nonprofit he founded in 2011 that provides technology, equipment, and services to people living with ALS. The organization has raised tens of millions of dollars through donations, partnerships, and fundraising events, with a significant portion of its budget directed toward home-modification grants and adaptive technology Team Gleason official website.
Gleason's financial story is closely tied to his advocacy work, as he has been transparent about the costs of long-term care and the importance of insurance, innovation, and community support. He has collaborated with companies in the health-tech and mobility sectors to develop tools that improve quality of life for ALS patients, and his public profile has helped attract corporate sponsors and philanthropic grants. His efforts have influenced both private-sector engagement and federal funding priorities for ALS research, making him a key figure in the intersection of sports, health policy, and nonprofit finance Forbes article on Gleason and ALS advocacy.
Steve Gleason Legacy and Current Public Profile
Steve Gleason's legacy extends beyond his on-field statistics, encompassing his role as a symbol of perseverance and his impact on the NFL's approach to player health and community engagement. The 2016 documentary "Gleason" brought widespread attention to his battle with ALS and his family's journey, earning critical acclaim and further amplifying his advocacy message. His work has been recognized by multiple organizations, including the ALS Association, the NFL Players Association, and various civic groups in New Orleans