Me and Gates, we laughed in the weight room today because that wasn't our 'A' game,

They carry a lot of the weight. But the great thing is we're starting to get scoring distribution throughout the lines.

I obviously take a lot of pride in what I do on the football field, because that has the ability to influence a lot of people. That puts smiles on people's faces. That gives people a pep in their step on Monday morning when they go back to work.

The Madden NFL franchise holds a special place in popular culture and the cover is a coveted position for players all over the league. I'm honored to be the first cover athlete chosen by Madden NFL fans and it's a great way to cap off an amazing year for the Saints and the city of New Orleans.

There's always a little bit of personal satisfaction when you prove somebody wrong.

We've already got things lined up and we'll be rocking and rolling the minute the clock strikes midnight. I understand everyone has their concerns [about the shoulder]. But I invite anybody to come here and look me in the eye and tell me I'm not going to come back from this.