via Saints Instagram

Although Steve Gleason cannot play anymore, he will always be loved by the New Orleans Saints fanbase and team. Gleason suffers from ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, which rapidly degenerates his body and motor functions while leaving his mind intact.

For Gleason's 37th birthday, Saints head coach Sean Payton gave him a custom jersey.

Gleason, who played in the NFL from 2000 to 2007, was defined by one play in particular. On Sept. 25, 2006, he blocked a punt by Atlanta Falcons punter Michael Koenen, which was recovered by teammate Curtis Deloatch for a touchdown. It was the first score for the Saints in almost 21 months following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina.

[New Orleans Saints]