Drew Brees Donates $21 Million to Purdue University for Football Facility Renovations and Athlete Development
West Lafayette, IN – May 3, 2025 — In a transformative act of generosity and unwavering school pride, former NFL quarterback and Purdue legend Drew Brees has donated $21 million to his alma mater to support the renovation of the university’s football facilities and the expansion of its student-athlete development center. It marks one of the largest individual donations in Purdue Athletics history and further cements Brees’s legacy not just as a football icon, but as a lifelong Boilermaker.
Brees, who led the New Orleans Saints to a Super Bowl title and remains one of the most statistically accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history, played for Purdue from 1997 to 2000. He remains a beloved figure in West Lafayette, known for his leadership both on and off the field.
“This university shaped who I am—not just as a player, but as a person,” Brees said in a statement. “This gift is about giving back to the place that gave me everything. I want the next generation of Boilermakers to have the resources, facilities, and support system to reach their fullest potential, both on the field and in life.”
The $21 million donation will fund a major overhaul of Ross-Ade Stadium’s training and locker room complexes, as well as enhancements to the student-athlete academic center and mental wellness resources. The project, expected to break ground later this year, will be named in honor of Brees and his family.
Purdue University President Mung Chiang praised the gift as a “game-changer” for the athletics department and student-athletes across all sports.
“Drew has always been a leader, and this extraordinary contribution speaks volumes about his commitment to Purdue and its mission,” Chiang said. “His impact will be felt by student-athletes for generations.”
Athletic Director Mike Bobinski noted that the new facilities would provide a competitive edge in recruiting and athlete development. “This is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a statement of excellence, fueled by one of our greatest ambassadors.”
Brees’s philanthropic legacy is well established, with millions previously donated through the Brees Dream Foundation to support education, health care, and community development.
With this historic gift, Drew Brees once again proves that true greatness extends far beyond the playing field—it lives on in the lives and futures one helps shape.
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