It might have been the hardest hit I took all day.

There are a very few consistent, common threads among the most successful NFL quarterbacks. Most of them are intangibles, which you can't measure with a physical test. You need leadership ability, competitiveness, drive, and will. You need focus, poise, and charisma.

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.

We all understand what we signed up for, but then again, you don't want this to be a game that puts people in wheelchairs at age 40.

I get people stopping me on the street like twenty times a day, telling me how great it makes them feel and how it just helps them to go about their day and rebuild their lives. It means a tremendous amount.

I'm not just trying to be a good game manager. I'm trying to be great.

I expect to make big plays. And when I don't, I'm upset about it.