Steve Gleason

Stephen Michael Gleason is an American former professional football safety and a prominent advocate for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis awareness. He played eight seasons in the National Football League, primarily for the New Orleans Saints, before retiring in 2008. His legacy extends far beyond his on-field statistics due to a single play that became a symbol of hope for a city recovering from Hurricane Katrina.

Diagnosed with ALS in 2011, Gleason has become one of the most recognizable figures in the fight against the disease. He co-founded Team Gleason, a foundation dedicated to funding research and providing care services to patients and families. His journey has been documented in the critically acclaimed film Gleason, which offers an intimate look at living with the condition while maintaining a sense of humor and purpose.

As of 2026, he continues to lead his foundation and remains active in public life despite being paralyzed by the disease. He communicates using eye-tracking technology and frequently appears in media to discuss resilience and disability rights. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Congressional Gold Medal and the Arthur Ashe Courage Award. [edit]

Stephen Michael Gleason was born in Spokane, Washington, where he grew up playing sports. He attended Mead High School and excelled in both football and track, displaying the athletic prowess that would define his early career. After high school, he enrolled at Washington State University to play college football for the Cougars from 1996 to 1999. During his time there, he served as a defensive back and developed the skills necessary for the next level of competition.

Following his college career, Gleason entered the NFL draft but went undrafted in 2000. The Indianapolis Colts signed him as an undrafted free agent shortly after, but he was released before the regular season began. This setback could have ended his professional aspirations, yet it led to a pivotal opportunity. He joined the New Orleans Saints later that year, signing as a free agent just in time for training camp. The move placed him in a franchise that would soon face its greatest challenges, setting the stage for a career defined by resilience rather than traditional stats. [edit]

Gleason spent the majority of his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints from 2001 to 2008. While he started as a backup safety, he eventually became a key contributor on special teams. His most defining moment occurred on September 25, 2006, during the Saints' first home game after Hurricane Katrina. In the second quarter, he blocked a punt by Atlanta Falcons kicker Michael Koenen. The block set up a touchdown and sparked a roar from the crowd that many described as deafening. This play became known as the "Rebirth" game and provided a crucial emotional boost to a city still reeling from the storm.

He continued to serve as a veteran leader through the 2008 season before announcing his retirement. Following his departure from the league, Gleason shifted his focus entirely to advocacy. In 2013, he established Team Gleason, a non-profit organization aimed at accelerating ALS research and supporting affected families. The foundation has since raised over $100 million for medical research and patient care programs.

In 2016, the documentary Gleason, directed by his friend Casey Neistat, brought his personal struggle with the disease to a global audience. The film received widespread critical acclaim and furthered the mission of his foundation. More recently, in October 2026, he celebrated the 20th anniversary of his iconic block with the release of a music album titled The Rebirth and a statue unveiled near the Superdome. These events highlighted his enduring impact on both sports and humanitarian causes. [edit]

Gleason is widely recognized for his profound resilience and positive attitude in the face of adversity. Unlike many athletes who frame their illness as a battle to be won, he often speaks about embracing ALS as part of his life journey. His public persona is defined by authenticity and vulnerability, particularly through his social media presence where he shares raw, unfiltered moments of his daily existence using eye-tracking technology. Media outlets frequently describe him as a hero not just for his athletic achievements but for his unwavering spirit and dedication to helping others. [edit]

iFANN evaluated this person in October 2026 but does not currently hold a placement in the published Global Top 1,000 rankings. He is not featured on the September 2026 iFAMOUS Rankings flagship list. While he lacks a formal fandom name like those found in music or pop culture, he is revered by "Who Dat Nation," the collective identity of New Orleans Saints fans. Fans refer to him simply as "The Legend" or "Steve," celebrating his role in the team's history and his humanitarian work. The fanbase actively supports his foundation and attends events honoring his legacy, such as the 20th-anniversary celebrations in 2026. [edit]

Steve Gleason uses advanced eye-tracking technology to communicate, type, and create content, allowing him to remain active in advocacy and creative projects despite being paralyzed. He is a close friend of filmmaker Casey Neistat, who directed the documentary chronicling his life with ALS. A bronze statue titled "Rebirth," depicting him mid-block, was unveiled near the Superdome in October 2026 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the historic play. He is one of only two players, alongside Drew Brees, to receive the Congressional Gold Medal for their combined efforts in hurricane recovery and ALS advocacy. In late 2026, he released a 12-song album called The Rebirth created in collaboration with Marc Broussard and Trombone Shorty. [edit]

Steve Gleason has been married to Amy Gleason since 2002. The couple met while Steve was attending Washington State University. Their relationship has remained strong through the challenges posed by his ALS diagnosis, and they have faced the progression of the disease together as a family unit. They have three children: two sons named Jackson and Jack, and a daughter named Lily. The family resides in New Orleans, where they continue to be deeply involved in the local community and advocacy work. Amy plays a central role in managing the daily aspects of their lives and supporting Steve's public initiatives. [edit]

Team Gleason; New Orleans Saints; Casey Neistat; Marc Broussard; Trombone Shorty. [edit]

Steve Gleason has maintained a long-term relationship with Amy Gleason since their college days at Washington State University. They married in 2002, well before his professional football career peaked or his ALS diagnosis. Their bond has been tested significantly by the progression of his disease, yet they have remained committed to each other throughout the journey. There are no public records of previous marriages or significant romantic relationships prior to Amy. As of 2026, the couple continues to live together in New Orleans, raising their three children and working together on advocacy initiatives. Amy plays a vital role in supporting Steve's public life and managing their family affairs. [edit]

iFANN Editorial Team analysis places Steve Gleason's net worth at approximately $2 million as of 2026. His financial standing stems from a combination of speaking engagements, book royalties, and media appearances rather than traditional sports salaries. As a high-demand speaker, he commands fees for corporate and nonprofit events focused on resilience and disability advocacy. His memoir, The Rebirth, generates ongoing royalty income, adding to his revenue streams.

Media rights from the documentary Gleason also contribute to his earnings, alongside licensing deals for his story and image. While he serves as the CEO of Team Gleason, his salary is modest compared to the millions the foundation raises for research and patient care. Real estate holdings include a primary residence in New Orleans, though specific valuations remain private. The bulk of his wealth reflects his successful transition from athlete to influential advocate. [edit]

Steve Gleason has received numerous honors recognizing his contributions to sports and society. He was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2019 alongside Drew Brees and Sean Payton. In 2024, he received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPYs. He was also presented with the Key to the City of New Orleans in 2026. His foundation, Team Gleason, has raised over $100 million for ALS research, a feat often cited as a major achievement. [edit]