Brees moving past NFC title loss: 'I refuse to let this create any negativity'

Drew Brees wants the New Orleans Saints and their fans to move on from their controversial loss in the NFC Championship Game.

The future Hall of Fame quarterback attempted to uplift his team's fan base following a week of a public outcry over a late missed call in the Saints' loss to the Los Angeles Rams, writing he won't "let this hold us down" in a lengthy Instagram post on Monday.

Officials didn't throw a flag for a blatant defensive pass interference penalty that would've essentially secured a Super Bowl berth for New Orleans. Instead, the game went to overtime, in which the Rams snatched a victory after Brees threw an interception.

Frustrated Saints fans have pushed hard for an NFC title game rematch; a petition for a do-over has reached over 700,000 signatures and two season-ticket holders have filed a lawsuit.

Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy even broached the issue in the Senate during the U.S. government shutdown, arguing the NFL had blown the game. Some on social media criticized Cassidy for the poor timing and inappropriate nature of his speech.

Saints fans are unlikely to get over the heartbreaking defeat any time soon, but the 40-year-old Brees' confirmation that he intends to return for "another run" at a second championship should soften the blow.