The New Orleans Saints will likely play all eight of their regular season games in the Superdome, it was announced by NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue Wednesday.




WWL-TV

Following the 2005 season in which the Saints played only four games in their home state of Louisiana, NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue and team owner Tom Benson announced the Saints would likely play all home games in the Superdome next season.

The commissioner also said that ideas to spur interest in the Saints are being considered, including: A kick-off event before the first NFL game of the season and a New Year’s Eve special tied into a Saints game that night.


Tagliabue and team owner Tom Benson both added that the team is “committed� to trying to stay in New Orleans for the long haul. Both men said that every effort was being made to that end, but that the area would have to show it can support a team.


“I’m committed for as long as the community commits to me,� said Benson. “We’re here and we’re committed.�


Tagliabue was in town to gauge the city’s progress and he said he was impressed. Both men said their meeting with business leaders went well and that most businesses are optimistic about the future.


Benson, who had been quoted in reports as calling the city “unlivable� during his time in San Antonio, said he has also seen a marked improvement.


“Between September 2nd, when we left for San Antonio, and now is like night and day,� he said.


The Saints will probably not play their preseason games in the Superdome, but Benson said they will likely be held somewhere in Louisiana.