After serving four seasons as head team physician for the New Orleans Saints, Larry “Chip” Bankston, MD, has chosen to depart from the Superdome sidelines. Bankston is officially stepping away effective July 1.
“It has been an unbelievable honor and privilege to serve as the Saints head team physician over the last four years. I depart with many wonderful memories, friendships, and a firm belief that the Saints organization is the best in the National Football League. My time with the Saints has offered me valuable experiences ranging from care of the acutely injured player to consulting with the nation’s best collection of orthopedic surgeons within the NFL Physician Society. More specifically, my practice that specializes in shoulder, knee, and elbow injuries, has gained deeper insight and expertise to better care for athletes of all ages. I look forward to expanding my practice to better serve patients with sports related injuries. Additionally, I am excited to work with my partners at Baton Rouge Orthopedic Clinic and solidify our clinic as the premier destination for musculoskeletal care in the Gulf South,” said Bankston.
Since joining the Saints in 2017, Bankston has accompanied the team through many significant events, including the final season for late owner Tom Benson, four consecutive seasons that led to playoffs and NFC South Division Championships, the retirement of quarterback Drew Brees, as well as navigating the COVID-19 guidelines throughout the 2020 season. Through his tenure with the Saints, he covered 64 regular season games and seven postseason games.
Beau Lowery, director of sports medicine for the New Orleans Saints said, “Special thanks to Dr. Chip Bankston for all his hard work assisting the medical staff for the 2017-2020 seasons. He was a tremendous asset to the team and his contributions are greatly appreciated. He will truly be missed.”