New Orleans Saints will wear special patch celebrating 50th season in 2016

The New Orleans Saints are about to hit a big milestone.

New Orleans is on the verge of its 50th season of NFL football, a history that dates all the way back to John Gilliam's kickoff return for a touchdown in the season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in 1967.

To commemorate the franchise's longevity, the Saints will wear a special "50th Season" patches on their uniforms in 2016, and the logo will also adorn the playing surface at the Superdome.

"As we prepare to kick off our 50th season with the upcoming NFL Draft, we are excited to recognize the players, historic moments and stories of our team's first 50 seasons in New Orleans," Saints owner Tom Benson said in a statement. "We are also looking forward to celebrating and inviting the participation of our Season Ticket Holders, fans and region who have been the foundation of all of our successes and inspiration in times of challenge."

New Orleans is also installing new video boards that cost $25 million.

"I could not be more excited to see the new video boards during 2016 season, which I am told will be among the largest in the world in our stadium," Benson said. "I am proud that we can provide these continued important fan enhancements on so many levels for those attending our games."

For more on changes with the Saints, visit the New Orleans Advocate.

This story was originally published March 18, 2016 at 1:24 PM with the headline "New Orleans Saints will wear special patch celebrating 50th season in 2016 ."