New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees officially announced his retirement from playing professional football on Sunday and is already looking forward to the next chapter of his career off the field.

The 42-year-old veteran spoke on TODAY and announced that he will be joining NBC in the near future:

To bid goodbye to the league and his fans, Brees also penned a touching message for everyone who became a part of his illustrious career in the NFL, via The Advocate and Times-Picayune. He started off by expressing his gratitude to the city of New Orleans, who welcomed him with open arms ever since he first arrived back in 2006.

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Brees also thanked the entire Saints organization led by team owner Gayle Benson and her late husband, Tom Benson, for the generosity. On the field, the quarterback also gave props to his countless coaches and teammates with the Saints who didn't leave his side during tough times. He didn't forget to mention even the team's training staff, equipment personnel, and every individual who worked behind the scenes over the years.

The Texas native then gave a shoutout to his mentors, Tom House and Todd Durkin, who helped him get to where he is today. Parents, friends, and neighbors were mentioned in the letter as Brees also showed his appreciation to his wife, Brittany, and their children, Baylen, Bowen, Callen, and Rylen.

To end the letter, Brees wanted to leave a parting message to all the young people who look up to him and are hoping to chase their own dreams in the future. He highlighted the importance of having a growth mindset, the immense value of playing for a team, and striving to win in every aspect of life.

Drew Brees is concluding his 20-year career with a First-Team All-Pro selection, two NFL Offensive Player of the Year Awards, 13 Pro Bowl appearances, a Super Bowl XLIV title, and a Super Bowl XLIV MVP. Beyond his accolades on the field, he will be greatly remembered for the countless lives he has touched and the invaluable impact he has made for the city of New Orleans through the years.