FLORHAM PARK, New Jersey – Thomas Morstead’s punts will do more than just change field position for the New York Jets this season.
The veteran punter announced Tuesday that he is donating $1,000 for every kick he makes inside his opponent’s 20-yard line as part of his Punt Campaign for ALS in honor of former New Orleans Saints special teams star Steve Gleason.
Gleason, a former NFL safety, was diagnosed with ALS or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2011. He was honored with the award Arthur Ashe Award for Courage at the ESPYS last month.
Gleason’s nonprofit, Team Gleason, helps people with ALS live purposeful lives by providing programming and support services.
“Steve has given so much of himself to others throughout his life and it seemed like the right time to give back by raising awareness of the incredible work he is doing through his nonprofit organization Team Gleason Foundation,” Morstead said in a statement announcing your campaign. “I am honored and excited to dedicate my 16th NFL season to Steve and his foundation.”
Morstead’s Punt for ALS campaign was created to help raise awareness about ALS, and the Jets punter said he will make a minimum pledge of $10,000. Last season, Morstead threw a career-high 36 punts inside the 20-yard line.
Morstead is also asking teammates, opponents and fans to donate to Team Gleason in support.
Although they were never teammates, Morstead – who spent 12 seasons playing for the Saints – and Gleason got to know each other over the years. Morstead was also aware of Gleason’s role in helping the city of New Orleans recover from Hurricane Katrina.
Gleason blocked a punt in the Saints’ game against the Atlanta Falcons on September 25, 2006 – the first game in New Orleans in nearly 21 months – that was recovered by Curtis Deloatch in the end zone for a touchdown. A statue depicting Gleason blocking the shot, the first score in the Saints’ return to New Orleans, was placed outside the Superdome in 2012.
After the game, Gleason wrote on social media: “Hey Falcons. #NeverPunt.” It’s become his motto — one that Morstead recently reveled in when he made a surprise visit to Gleason.
“I waited 10 years to do this,” Morstead told Gleason and crossed out the word “never” on Gleason’s #neverpunt t-shirt.
“Gratitude is sacred,” Gleason said in a statement. “In the midst of immense suffering, I started a daily gratitude journal. Gratitude has been a path to resilience, strength and joy. I am extremely grateful for Thomas’ friendship and support. I thank him and all those who come together to make a greater impact on the ALS community.”
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