Armstead, a cornerstone of the Saints offensive line for nearly a decade (2013-21), was originally selected by the Black and Gold in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft (75th overall) out of Arkansas-Pine Bluff. In his nine seasons with the Black and Gold, the Cahokia, Ill. native started 93 of 97 games played at left tackle, also opening all nine postseason games that he played in. He received three consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2018-20 and was an Associated Press All-Pro in 2018, when the Saints reached the NFC Championship game. Armstead finished his playing career with the Miami Dolphins (2022-24), opening 38 additional contests and two playoff games in 2022 and 2023, when he also earned Pro Bowl honors. Armstead announce his retirement from his NFL playing career this past spring.