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Steve Gleason's Punt Block Marks 20 Years of New Orleans Resilience
Confirmed
In Short: Steve Gleason's blocked punt in the 2006 Saints-Falcons game remains a defining moment of New Orleans' resilience.
Steve Gleason's blocked punt in the 2006 Saints-Falcons game remains a defining moment in New Orleans' history, marking the city's return to normalcy after Hurricane Katrina.
Less than 90 seconds into the game, Gleason blocked Michael Koenen's punt, a play that would become one of the most iconic in NFL history.
The stadium remained packed with fans even after the game, as ESPN analyst Stuart Scott noted, 'not a soul has left this building.'
Gleason, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2011, continues to be celebrated for his heroics. A 12-foot bronze statue titled 'Rebirth' now stands outside the Superdome, commemorating the moment.
The statue symbolizes the rebirth of New Orleans and the resilience of its people. 'None of this happens without Steve Gleason,' said Clare Durrett, managing director of Answer ALS.
Gleason himself reflected on the impact of the play, saying, 'If I don't block that punt, I'd be dead.'
The game was part of a larger effort to bring the city back to life. A day after the game, WDSU spoke with Gleason about his incredible play.
The punt was recovered in the end zone for a touchdown, a moment that still resonates with fans.
Gleason's play has been memorialized in various ways, including a statue and a cover of his 2026 album 'Rebirth.'
The blocked punt has become a symbol of the city's resilience, and Gleason's legacy continues to inspire.
Twenty years later, the play remains a testament to the strength and spirit of New Orleans.
The game was a pivotal moment in the Saints-Falcons rivalry, and Gleason's heroics have been celebrated ever since.
What this adds
The statue outside the Superdome serves as a permanent reminder of Gleason's impact on the city.
Gleason's play has been commemorated in multiple forms, including a statue and album cover.
What's confirmed
- Steve Gleason's blocked punt in the 2006 Saints-Falcons game remains a defining moment in New Orleans' history, marking the city's return to normalcy after Hurricane Katrina.
- Less than 90 seconds into the game, Gleason blocked Michael Koenen's punt, a play that would become one of the most iconic in NFL history.
- Gleason, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2011, continues to be celebrated for his heroics. A 12-foot bronze statue titled 'Rebirth' now stands outside the Superdome, commemorating the moment.
- The statue symbolizes the rebirth of New Orleans and the resilience of its people. 'None of this happens without Steve Gleason,' said Clare Durrett, managing director of Answer ALS.
- The game was part of a larger effort to bring the city back to life. A day after the game, WDSU spoke with Gleason about his incredible play.
- The punt was recovered in the end zone for a touchdown, a moment that still resonates with fans.
- The blocked punt has become a symbol of the city's resilience, and Gleason's legacy continues to inspire.
- Twenty years later, the play remains a testament to the strength and spirit of New Orleans.
- The game was a pivotal moment in the Saints-Falcons rivalry, and Gleason's heroics have been celebrated ever since.
What's still developing
- There have been 5,216 regular-season games, 45,983 punts and 247 punts blocked since that night.
- 25, 2006 ahead of a Week 3 game featuring the Saints and Falcons on "Monday Night Football." Former Saints quarterback Archie Manning and a group of first responders were among those who ceremonially ushered fans back into the Dome ahead of a performance by the Goo Goo Dolls.
- Bush, who oversaw the coin toss, the real star of the night was a 29-year-old Saints player named Steve Gleason.
- Nathan Jeansonne, back right, closes the van door after helping Steve Gleason get out of it at Gleason's home in New Orleans on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
- Twenty years ago, the New Orleans Saints returned to the Superdome to face archrivals, the Atlanta Falcons, in a newly reopened stadium following the devastation from Hurricane Katrina.
- You can listen to Gleason's interview in the video player above.