Demario Davis, the New Orleans Saints linebacker, embodies the spirit of giving, both on and off the field. Ahead of a crucial Monday night game, Davis prioritized spreading holiday cheer by partnering with Raising Cane’s, the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP), and the New Orleans Saints Cheer Krewe to gift over 100 custom bikes and helmets to children from the Metro New Orleans’ Boys and Girls Club. For Davis, this act of generosity resonated deeply, recalling the joy and sense of ownership his first bike provided him and recognizing the potential for such a gift to steer young people away from negative influences. This initiative is but one example of Davis’s ongoing commitment to serving the New Orleans community.
Davis’s dedication to community service extends far beyond the holiday season. Through the Devoted Dreamers Foundation, which he established with his wife, Tamela, Davis consistently strives to uplift and support vulnerable populations. His efforts were recognized earlier this season when he received the NFLPA’s Week 8 Community MVP award for spearheading an initiative to upgrade all the beds at Covenant House, a youth homeless shelter. This project, completed in collaboration with Ashley Furniture, provided up to 700 at-risk young people aged 16-22 with improved sleeping arrangements, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for those facing homelessness and the threat of human trafficking. Davis’s motivation stems from a profound desire to create a sense of safety, security, and belonging for those in need, viewing his service as a testament to his faith and a way to uplift humanity.
The 2023 NFL season has presented a unique set of challenges for Davis and the Saints. After a promising 2-0 start, the team endured a seven-game losing streak, culminating in the dismissal of head coach Dennis Allen. Injuries to key players, including those on the offensive line, at quarterback, and within the receiving corps, significantly hampered the team’s performance. Despite the setbacks, which likely will result in the two-time All-Pro missing the playoffs for only the second time in seven seasons, Davis maintains a positive outlook, viewing the adversity as an opportunity for growth, both individually and collectively as a team.
Under the interim leadership of Darren Rizzi, who took over as head coach following Allen’s departure, the Saints have shown marked improvement, winning three of their last five games. The two losses during this period were narrow defeats against playoff-contending teams, the Los Angeles Rams and the Washington Commanders, decided by single possessions. Davis credits Rizzi’s coaching acumen for the team’s turnaround, highlighting the interim coach’s ability to instill a renewed sense of competitiveness and a positive shift in team culture despite the challenging circumstances. The team’s performance under Rizzi’s leadership has demonstrated resilience and a fight to the finish, reflecting a renewed sense of purpose.
Looking ahead to the final stretch of the season, Davis emphasizes the importance of maintaining the momentum generated under Rizzi’s guidance. Despite a 5-9 record, the focus remains on playing with the same competitive spirit and resilience demonstrated in recent weeks. This commitment to finishing strong underscores the team’s dedication to continuous improvement and their refusal to give up despite the challenges faced throughout the season. The goal is to carry this positive momentum into the next season.
Davis, who recently signed a two-year extension with the Saints, envisions New Orleans as the place where he will conclude his NFL career. He has expressed a deep connection to the team, the city, and the organization, viewing them as an extension of his family. His ultimate aspiration is to contribute to bringing a Super Bowl championship to New Orleans, a goal that fuels his dedication and commitment to the Saints. Davis’s loyalty to the team and city signifies his belief in their potential and his determination to be a part of their future success.