New Orleans Saints Player Criticizes Detroit; City Responds with Statistics

Equanimeous St. Brown, a wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints, sparked controversy with his remarks about the city of Detroit during an episode of the “St. Brown Podcast,” which he co-hosts. On the podcast, St. Brown made statements suggesting that Detroit is not a preferred destination for NFL players, saying, “Detroit — no one’s going there, I promise you.” He added, “Like… if they could choose to live anywhere in the world or the country, they would not choose Detroit.”

The comments did not sit well with the City of Detroit, prompting a response from its official X (formerly Twitter) account. The city countered St. Brown’s claims with evidence of population growth, noting, “Our population has actually grown for the first time in more than six decades,” referencing data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Detroit’s retort also included a playful jab comparing Equanimeous unfavorably to his brother, Amon-Ra St. Brown, who plays for the Detroit Lions.

This exchange follows a historic reputation battle for Detroit, which suffered significantly during the 2013 municipal bankruptcy that made it a national punchline. However, the city is experiencing a rejuvenation in recent years, with increased investment and development efforts contributing to a more positive portrayal.

Despite St. Brown’s comments, the performance of Detroit’s NFL team, the Lions, remains a more pressing concern regarding the city’s appeal to players. The Lions, who reached the NFC title game in 2023 and have started the current season with a 3-1 record, continue to attract talent due to their success on the field. The case of Green Bay, which despite a small population has consistently attracted high-caliber players to the Packers, underscores that on-field success often outweighs a city’s size or perceived appeal.

Meanwhile, Equanimeous St. Brown’s own standing within the NFL is uncertain. Currently on the New Orleans Saints’ practice squad after being released earlier this year, his opportunities for game time remain limited. This might make living in Detroit more appealing if it meant securing a regular playing role with the Lions.

The interaction between St. Brown and the City of Detroit has captured public attention, showcasing a common intersection of sports, city pride, and public perception in social media discourse.