Steve Gleason Marked Anniversary of Historic Blocked Punt
The former New Orleans Saints player shared a condition update 20 years after his iconic play at the Superdome.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Football
Steve Gleason provided an update on his health through a WDSU interview on the 20th anniversary of his historic blocked punt for the New Orleans Saints. The team commemorated the milestone by releasing footage of the legendary play that occurred at the Superdome.
Why it matters
The anniversary serves as a reminder of Gleason's enduring impact on the New Orleans community and his ongoing battle with ALS, which he was diagnosed with in 2011. His recent public presence follows his participation in an Ice Bucket Challenge during July 2026.
Gleason has now navigated an ALS diagnosis for 15 years, a period that spans the two decades since his 2006 blocked punt. During this time, he has remained an active advocate, notably performing an Ice Bucket Challenge in July 2026.
The players
Steve Gleason
He is a former New Orleans Saints player who has become a prominent advocate for ALS awareness since his 2011 diagnosis.
New Orleans Saints
The professional football organization based in New Orleans released commemorative footage to mark the 20th anniversary of the historic play.
Chris Johnson
He is an individual diagnosed with ALS in 2025 who uses assistive eye-tracking technology to communicate.
The details
Gleason shared his update in an interview with WDSU, highlighting his journey since his 2011 diagnosis. Meanwhile, Chris Johnson, who also navigates life with ALS, continues to communicate using an eye-controlled, speech-generating tablet as he turned 41 on September 23, 2026.
Timeline
2006: Gleason blocked a historic punt for the Saints.
2011: Gleason received his ALS diagnosis.
July 2026: Gleason performed the Ice Bucket Challenge.
September 23, 2026: Chris Johnson turned 41 years old.
September 25, 2026: Gleason shared his condition update.
Season Trajectory
The 2006 blocked punt stands as a foundational moment for the New Orleans Saints franchise that persists as a symbol of resilience for the team. Reflecting on this legacy two decades later highlights the lasting impact individual players have on the team's cultural and competitive identity.
The anniversary highlights the ongoing legacy of the 2006 team, which remains a central pillar of New Orleans sports history. Fans continue to look toward the organization's commemorative media as a way to engage with the team's past accomplishments.
The takeaway
Gleason's story remains a symbol of endurance for the New Orleans community 20 years after his legendary performance. His continued advocacy provides a poignant perspective on living with ALS while maintaining a public presence.
Further reading
For more on the team's legacy and history, visit the New Orleans Football section.
