Tom Brady may not return to the NFL – but he explored whether it was possible.
The legendary New England Patriots quarterback, a frequent subject of non-retirement rumors, told CNBC Sport this week that he has questioned the NFL about its policy regarding returning to the league as a player while maintaining his status as a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders — but he has no plans to return.
“I actually looked into it, and they don’t like the 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 happy to retire. Let me say that too.”
An NFL spokesperson said if Brady wanted to return to the league, he would first have to divest his stake in the Raiders, citing a 2023 policy that prohibits players or employees of a team from taking ownership of a club.
“Additionally, there would be salary cap issues involving a player/owner,” the spokesperson added..
Brady participated in a Fanatics flag football game last week and threw a touchdown pass to wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Although Brady admitted he enjoys being back on the field, he said, “This game kind of confirmed to me that I’m very happy with my retirement.”
Brady said that since taking a minority stake in the Raiders, he has 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 are, there’s really no job description. I don’t really have a day-to-day role,” he said. “You know, my phone call is always available to anyone who needs it. I want to see everyone succeed, do their best, bring a winning culture to Las Vegas – to bring the Raiders back to glory. I would love to be a part of that.”