Happy 40th birthday to former New Orleans Saints wide receiver Marques Colston! As we celebrate this milestone, it's only fitting to take a moment to reflect on the career of one of the NFL's most underrated players.
Colston's journey is a testament to perseverance, talent, and the ability to exceed expectations.
Drafted in the seventh round as the 252nd pick in the 2006 NFL Draft, Colston was only four picks away from being dubbed "Mr. Irrelevant." But there was nothing irrelevant about Colston. Hailing from Hofstra University, a small private institution in Hempstead, New York, he already showcased his skills in college, amassing an impressive 182 catches and over 2,800 yards during his college career.
Upon joining the Saints, most teams saw Colston's 6'4" frame and considered him a potential tight end. However, new head coach Sean Payton had different plans in mind. Throughout training camp, Colston competed against fellow wide receivers Devery Henderson, Lance Moore, and Terrance Copper for the third spot on the depth chart. Payton was so impressed by Colston's performance that he made the bold move to trade starting wide receiver Donte Stallworth, recognizing Colston's progress and potential.
In his rookie season, Colston delivered one of the best performances by a Saints receiver. Despite playing only 14 games and starting 12, he finished with a remarkable 70 receptions, 1,038 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns. Colston carried this momentum forward, establishing himself as one of the NFL's premier receivers and playing a pivotal role in helping the Saints secure their first and only Super Bowl Championship.
One of the keys to Colston's success was his exceptional connection with quarterback Drew Brees. Together, they formed one of the most formidable quarterback-receiver duos of the late 2000s and early 2010s. Brees consistently relied on Colston's reliable hands and precise route-running, resulting in numerous memorable plays and remarkable touchdown connections.
Despite Colston's achievements and contributions to the Saints, he never received the recognition he deserved. Surprisingly, he never made a Pro Bowl appearance or garnered the full respect and acclaim befitting one of the league's most consistent pass catchers. Colston's nickname, "The Quiet Storm," perfectly encapsulated his cool and calm demeanor both on and off the field. He never sought attention for himself, even after making circus catches or hauling in passes amidst tight coverage. This humility and lack of self-promotion may have contributed to him being overlooked by many.
Colston played during an era marked by the rise of the "Diva Receiver," where players like Terrell Owens, Chad Johnson, and Steve Smith attracted attention with their trash talk and elaborate touchdown celebrations. In contrast, Colston never fit that mold. His celebrations were simple, often consisting of a modest crossing of the heart and a pointed gesture toward the sky, which became his trademark. This understated approach to the game further set him apart from his peers and reinforced his nickname as "The Quiet Storm."
When reflecting on Colston's career, his impressive statistics speak for themselves. He accumulated a total of 711 catches, 9,759 receiving yards, and 72 touchdowns. These numbers are a testament to his consistency, reliability, and ability to make crucial plays when it mattered most. Colston's impact on the Saints organization cannot be overstated, as he remains the team's all-time leader in receiving yards, catches, and receiving touchdowns.
As we honor Marques Colston on his 40th birthday, let us recognize him as one of the NFL's unsung heroes. He exemplified the qualities of a true professional, consistently delivering exceptional performances without seeking the limelight.
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