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Saints' No. 22: A Legacy of Stars and Stats
22 Aug
Summary
- Martin Emerson Jr. now wears the iconic No. 22 for the Saints.
- Mark Ingram set franchise records in rushing yards and touchdowns.
- Tracy Porter's crucial interception secured a Super Bowl win.
With 22 days remaining until the New Orleans Saints' 2026 regular season opener against the Detroit Lions on September 13, cornerback Martin Emerson Jr. has adopted the iconic No. 22 jersey. This number has been worn by a succession of notable players throughout Saints history.
Charlie Brown was the first to wear No. 22 in 1967. Over the years, defensive players like Dee Martin and Van Jakes also donned the number. Brad Muster and Lorenzo Neal were among later wearers.
Fred Thomas had a long tenure, while Tracy Porter is celebrated for his pivotal interception in the Super Bowl XLIV victory. Mark Ingram, a Heisman Trophy winner, is arguably the most impactful player to wear No. 22, setting franchise records in rushing yards and touchdowns.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson briefly wore the number before being traded. Last year, Rashid Shaheed earned All-Pro honors as a punt returner with No. 22 before an injury. Emerson Jr. now steps into this legacy.
