Below is a statement from New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson and the Saints Organization following the passing of Dan Simmons today at the age of 78, who served as the team’s head equipment manager from 1973-2014: “Our thoughts are with Elaine and the Simmons family as we have suffered a significant loss with the passing of Dan. He played an integral role in the daily operations of the equipment room and locker room. Dan was a proud New Orleans Saint and touched the lives of thousands of players, coaches and staff members throughout his tenure, making significant contributions to this franchise. He will be greatly missed.” Simmons, a native of St. Louis, Missouri and a Vietnam veteran who served in the United States Navy for four years, served as the team’s head equipment manager for 32 seasons. For the past ten years following his retirement as head equipment manager, he served as an alumni/legends coordinator for the club, using his extensive contacts to continue to be a valued ...