Tom Brady has looked into the possibility of returning to the NFL, despite being happily retired.
The legendary New England Patriots quarterback, a frequent subject of un-retirement rumours, told CNBC Sport this week that he has asked the NFL about its policy around returning to the league as a player while maintaining his status as a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. He clarified, however, that he has no plans to return.
“I actually have inquired, and they don’t like that idea very much,” Brady said in an interview promoting his World Cup ad campaign with Ferrero. “We explored a lot of different things, and I’m very happily retired. Let me just say that, too.”
NFL’s Policy on Player Ownership
An NFL spokesperson stated that if Brady were to pursue a return to the league, he would first need to divest his ownership stake in the Raiders. This is due to a 2023 policy that prohibits players or team employees from taking equity in a club.
“In addition, there would be salary cap issues involving a player/owner,” the spokesperson added.
Brady’s On-Field Experience and Raiders Role
Brady recently participated in a Fanatics flag football game, throwing a touchdown pass to wide receiver Stefon Diggs. While he enjoyed being back on the field, Brady stated, “if anything, that game reconfirmed to me that I’m very happy in my retirement.”
Brady said since taking a minority stake in the Raiders, he’s helped the front office make personnel and coaching decisions in what he called a “strategic advisory role.”
“I’m a minority owner. So, when you’re that, there’s really no job description. I don’t have really a daily role,” he said. “You know, my phone call is always available to everybody who needs it. I want to see everyone succeed, be their best, bring a winning kind of a culture to Las Vegas — to bring the Raiders back to glory. I’d love to be a part of it.”
Potential Obstacles to a Comeback
- NFL policy requires Brady to divest his Raiders ownership stake.
- Salary cap issues would arise with a player/owner.
Brady has explored the possibility, but the NFL has indicated it is not in favour of the idea.