Former New Orleans Saints Teammates Reflect on Terron Armstead’s Retirement, Celebrating His Legacy as a Dominant Left Tackle
Terron Armstead’s decision to retire from the NFL marks the end of an era for the New Orleans Saints, as the team bids farewell to one of the most dominant and reliable left tackles in franchise history. Over his ten-year career with the Saints, Armstead was a cornerstone of the offensive line, earning recognition as one of the best at his position and leaving an indelible legacy both on and off the field. Former teammates have shared their admiration for Armstead, reflecting on his incredible skills, leadership, and the impact he had on their success.
Armstead’s journey to becoming one of the NFL’s elite left tackles began when the Saints selected him in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft out of Arkansas-Pine Bluff. From the start, Armstead showcased his remarkable athleticism and raw talent. His combination of size, speed, and technical skill allowed him to shut down some of the league’s top pass rushers, and it wasn’t long before he earned a reputation as one of the best blindside protectors in the game.
Former quarterback Drew Brees, who played behind Armstead for much of his career, expressed his deep respect for the offensive lineman. “Terron was as consistent as they come,” Brees said. “He was a guy I could always count on to give me that extra half-second to make a play. In a game where a millisecond can make all the difference, Terron was always on point.” The trust Brees had in Armstead allowed him to play with a sense of security and confidence, knowing that the left tackle would always be there to protect his blind side.
Armstead’s dominance wasn’t limited to his pass protection. He was also known for his run-blocking prowess, creating lanes for running backs like Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram. His ability to control the line of scrimmage was crucial to the Saints’ offensive success, and his versatility made him a key player in both zone and power running schemes. “Terron wasn’t just a pass protector; he was a road grader in the run game,” said former Saints guard Andrus Peat. “Whether it was a pulling block or opening up a lane, you could always rely on him to execute.”
Off the field, Armstead’s leadership and character made him a beloved figure in the locker room. Known for his quiet but strong presence, he was a mentor to younger players and an example of professionalism. His work ethic, commitment to the game, and dedication to his teammates set the standard for what it meant to be a New Orleans Saint.
As Armstead transitions to life after football, his legacy will endure not just in the Saints’ record books but in the hearts of his teammates and fans. His contributions to the team’s success over the years were immeasurable, and he will be remembered as one of the franchise’s greatest players. In the eyes of his former teammates, Terron Armstead’s retirement is the closing of a chapter that celebrated dominance, integrity, and unshakable reliability.