Kevin Mangum, an instrumental member of the New Orleans Saints Athletic Training staff for 44 years, announced his retirement today. One of the longest tenured members of the Saints organization, Mangum first started with the Saints as an intern during 1980 training camp and was hired full-time by former Head Athletic Trainer Dean Kleinschmidt, a recipient of the 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame Award of Excellence, at the start of the 1981 season.
“I have worked for a first class organization with amazing people and special friends for 44 years. As I close out my time here, it has become even more evident how very fortunate I am to have spent over half my life working for the New Orleans Saints,” said Mangum. “I have always worked to embrace God’s perfect will for my life, and I know now, without a doubt, that it was his will that I remain with this football club for my entire career. I don’t deserve all the grace that I have been given, but by grace and through faith, God has given me so much. To Mrs. Benson, Mickey Loomis, Dennis Lauscha, and all the players and staff I have worked with in my career, I wish you nothing but the very best and thank you so very much.”
Mangum was a part of some of the most significant moments in team history, including two NFC West Division Championships, seven NFC South Division Championships, 14 playoff teams, three appearances in NFC Championship games, and the club’s Super Bowl XLIV Championship team.
“Kevin has been a nationally acclaimed athletic trainer, working quietly and tirelessly behind the scenes of our operations for four decades,” said Owner Gayle Benson. “We are truly grateful for his professionalism and the dedication he showed throughout his legendary career. His hard work and selflessness have left a lasting impact, and he will always be welcome in our organization. His influence extends far beyond the training room, shaping the culture of excellence and care that defines our team. As he steps into this well-deserved next chapter of his life, we sincerely wish Kevin the very best in retirement and thank him for the immeasurable contributions he made to our success.”
