Saints highlight No. 39 jersey history ahead of season opener

With 39 days remaining until the New Orleans Saints' season opener against the Detroit Lions on September 13, the team reflects on the significance of the No. 39 jersey. Charlie Smyth, currently wearing No. 39, is the 14th player in franchise history to do so. Notable past players who wore this number include Hall of Famer Brett Maxie, who made significant contributions to the Saints' defense during the 1980s and 1990s, and Ernie Wheelwright, who was the first to wear No. 39 in the franchise's inaugural season. The Saints are expected to continue their countdown to kickoff by sharing more historical details about the jersey.

• 11:55 AMYahoo Sports — 39 days until Saints opener: Every player to wear the No. 39 jersey