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Saban Reveals Dolphins' Costly Mistake: Passing on Brees

3/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Nick Saban, former Miami Dolphins coach, said the team failed to sign Drew Brees in 2006 after a shoulder injury physical.
The Dolphins instead traded for Daunte Culpepper.
Brees' surgeon told Saban the quarterback would recover, but he faced pressure not to disclose the failed physical.
Brees thrived with the New Orleans Saints, while Culpepper struggled with the Dolphins.
Saban left the Dolphins after two seasons for Alabama.

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Story summary

Nick Saban, former Miami Dolphins coach, said the team failed to sign Drew Brees in 2006 after a shoulder injury physical.
The Dolphins instead traded for Daunte Culpepper.
Brees' surgeon told Saban the quarterback would recover, but he faced pressure not to disclose the failed physical.
Brees thrived with the New Orleans Saints, while Culpepper struggled with the Dolphins.
Saban left the Dolphins after two seasons for Alabama.