Countdown to New Orleans Saints kickoff: A history of No. 96

The New Orleans Saints keep marching on and focus on their 2017 campaign, while we patiently wait for the NFL to return to dominate the big screen. Some 96 days separate fans and the start of the team’s first contest against the Minnesota Vikings on Sept. 11, and the anticipation will only continue to build.

We continue our countdown that focuses on a comprehensive overview of players to wear the franchise’s corresponding number.

All data is courtesy of Pro Football Reference, and can be found at the franchise encyclopedia.

Alex Brown (2010), AV 6

Alex Brown joined the Saints on a two-year deal after spending eight years with the Chicago Bears. The then 31-year-old Brown played and started in all 16 games for the team, turning in 32 tackles, 2.0 sacks, 3 pass defenses, and a forced and recovered fumble. He also made 5 tackles and a sack in the team’s playoff loss to the Seahawks. Brown would be released prior to the 2011 season, and would eventually retire with the Bears in 2012.

Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images

Antwan Lake (2006-2008), AV 6

As an undrafted free agent in 2002, Antwan Lake bounced from the Lions to Falcons in his first three seasons before finding a home with the Saints in 2006. Lake appeared in 41 games as a defensive tackle, starting in 8 contests (7 in 2007). Believe it or not, Lake was credited with two kick returns in his first two seasons for 18 yards - a big man’s dream. After he saw an end to his NFL career, Lake joined the UFL and became a champion with the Las Vegas Locomotives in 2010.

Michael Simmons (1989-1990), AV 3

The first season for Michael Simmons was forgettable, as he played in only one game. However, he’d play in all 16 games for the 1990 squad, starting in three of those. Stat wise, he had a fumble recovery and a sack. He’d resurface with the Frankfurt Galaxy in 1992, and rounds out a fairly forgettable pack of players to wear this number.

Other players to wear No. 96: Tom Johnson (2011-2013), Melvin Williams (2003), Sheldon Andrus (1986-1987), Jeff Faulkner (1993), Uhuru Hamiter (1999), Dameian Jeffries (1995), Steve Parker (1980), Don Thorp (1984)

Ashaad Mabry will sport the number for 2017.