Steve Gleason was an American football safety who played in the NFL from 2000 to 2008. He played college football for Washington State University before being signed as an undrafted free agent by the Indianapolis Colts. However, he is best known for his time with the New Orleans Saints, where he played for the majority of his career. Gleason retired in 2008 after eight seasons in the NFL.
March 19, 1977: Birth of Steve Gleason
On March 19, 1977, Stephen Michael Gleason was born. He would later become known for his career in the NFL and his advocacy for ALS awareness.
1995: Gleason Begins College Football Career
Steve Gleason embarked on his college football journey in 1995, accepting a scholarship to play for Washington State University.
1997: Gleason's Rose Bowl Appearance
As a starting linebacker, Steve Gleason played a key role in Washington State's journey to the Rose Bowl in 1997.
2000: Gleason Enters the NFL
In 2000, Steve Gleason's NFL journey began when he signed with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent.
2001: Gleason Drafted by Birmingham Thunderbolts (XFL)
In 2001, Steve Gleason was selected by the Birmingham Thunderbolts in the XFL draft, marking another chapter in his football career.
2006: Gleason's Iconic Block
In 2006, Steve Gleason cemented his place in New Orleans Saints history with an unforgettable blocked punt against the Atlanta Falcons, marking a powerful moment of resilience after Hurricane Katrina.
2008: Gleason Retires from the NFL
After eight seasons, Steve Gleason retired from the NFL in 2008.
September 2011: Gleason Receives Super Bowl Ring and Key to New Orleans
September 2011 marked a momentous occasion for Steve Gleason as he was honored with a Super Bowl ring by the Saints and received the key to the city of New Orleans from Mayor Mitch Landrieu.
2011: Gleason Diagnosed with ALS
In a life-altering turn of events, Steve Gleason revealed his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2011.
January 2012: Bountygate Scandal
In January 2012, the NFL was shaken by the Bountygate scandal, exposing a system of bonuses for injuring opposing players within the New Orleans Saints organization.
April 4, 2012: Release of Bountygate Audio
On April 4, 2012, audio recorded for Steve Gleason's documentary brought the Bountygate scandal to light, revealing controversial practices within the Saints organization.
July 2012: Unveiling of the "Rebirth" Statue
July 2012 witnessed the unveiling of "Rebirth," a statue immortalizing Steve Gleason's iconic blocked punt, standing tall outside the Superdome as a symbol of resilience and hope.
October 15, 2015: Gleason Witnesses Blocked Punt by Michael Mauti
In a poignant moment reminiscent of his own iconic play, Steve Gleason witnessed Saints linebacker Michael Mauti block a punt and return it for a touchdown against the Falcons on October 15, 2015.
2015: Gleason Receives George Halas Award
Steve Gleason was honored with the prestigious George Halas Award by the Pro Football Writers Association in 2015, recognizing his courage and impact both on and off the field.
2016: Release of the Documentary "Gleason"
The documentary "Gleason", a poignant chronicle of Steve Gleason's life with ALS, premiered in 2016, capturing his strength and resilience.
2016: Premiere of "Gleason" at Sundance Film Festival
The documentary "Gleason," capturing Steve Gleason's life and battle with ALS, premiered at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival in 2016.
2019: Gleason Awarded Congressional Gold Medal
In recognition of his extraordinary dedication to ALS awareness, Steve Gleason received the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal in 2019, a testament to his impactful advocacy.
January 15, 2020: Gleason Receives Congressional Gold Medal
In a historic moment, Steve Gleason became the first NFL player to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in a ceremony held on January 15, 2020, celebrating his unwavering advocacy for ALS awareness.
April 2024: Release of Gleason's Memoir
In April 2024, Steve Gleason shared his life story and reflections in his memoir, "A Life Impossible: Living with ALS: Finding Peace and Wisdom Within a Fragile Existence," offering insights into his journey and the challenges of living with ALS.