BREAKING NEWS: New Orleans Saints Mourn the Tragic Passing of Longtime General Manager Mickey Loomis
BREAKING NEWS: New Orleans Saints Mourn the Tragic Passing of Longtime General Manager Mickey Loomis
The New Orleans Saints and the broader NFL community are in mourning today following the tragic and unexpected passing of longtime general manager Mickey Loomis. Loomis, 68, who served as a pillar of the franchise for over two decades, passed away late last night, according to a statement released by the team early this morning.
The cause of death has not yet been officially disclosed, but sources close to the family confirmed it was sudden and unrelated to any known previous medical condition. The news has sent shockwaves through the Saints organization, where Loomis had become synonymous with the team’s identity and culture.
A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence
Appointed as general manager in 2002, Loomis was instrumental in transforming the Saints from a struggling franchise into one of the NFL’s most competitive teams. Under his leadership, the Saints reached unprecedented heights, including their historic Super Bowl XLIV victory in 2010—a moment many fans regard as the most significant in the team’s history.
“Today, we lost more than an executive—we lost a visionary, a mentor, and a friend,” said Saints owner Gayle Benson in an emotional press release. “Mickey’s impact on this organization, this city, and the game of football is immeasurable. Our hearts are broken.”
A Revered Figure in the NFL
Beyond New Orleans, Loomis was widely respected across the league for his football acumen, integrity, and steady hand in times of adversity. He was a key figure during the team’s rebuilding efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and his voice was often sought in league circles on major policy and player development issues.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell issued a statement calling Loomis “one of the most thoughtful and respected leaders the league has ever known.”
Players and Coaches Pay Tribute
Tributes have poured in from current and former players, coaches, and colleagues. Sean Payton, former Saints head coach and longtime collaborator with Loomis, posted on social media:
“I am devastated. Mickey wasn’t just my GM—he was family. We built something special together in New Orleans, and I owe much of my career to his belief in me.”
Star running back Alvin Kamara tweeted simply, “Rest easy, boss. Thank you for believing in me.”
A City in Mourning
In New Orleans, fans gathered outside the Caesars Superdome this morning, many laying flowers and Saints memorabilia beneath a growing memorial near the stadium gates. The city declared April 21st a day of remembrance, and flags at all municipal buildings will fly at half-staff in his honor.
Local resident and longtime Saints fan, Lorraine Thibodeaux, shared her thoughts through tears: “Mickey Loomis gave this city hope when we needed it the most. He was more than just football. He was New Orleans.”
Looking Ahead
Loomis had been in a legal dispute with the organization following his dismissal in late 2024. However, those close to the matter say reconciliation efforts had begun in recent weeks. “We were optimistic about finding peace,” said one former colleague. “It’s heartbreaking that time ran out.”
As the team prepares to honor his legacy in the coming days, plans are underway for a public memorial service to be held at the Superdome later this week.
