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Tom Brady confirmed this week that he explored a return to the NFL, but league rules ultimately prevented the seven-time Super Bowl champion from attempting another comeback.
Speaking with CNBC, Brady revealed he inquired about playing again while maintaining his minority ownership stake in the Las Vegas Raiders. According to Brady, the NFL quickly rejected the idea.
"I actually have inquired, and they don't like that idea very much," Brady said, adding that he remains "very happily retired."
The league's decision stems primarily from a policy implemented in 2023 prohibiting active players or team employees from holding equity in an NFL franchise.
Ownership rules created immediate conflict
Brady purchased a 5% stake in the Raiders in 2024 as part of an ownership group deal valuing the team at $3.5 billion. An NFL spokesperson said Brady would need to fully divest his ownership share before being eligible to return as a player.
League officials also cited concerns about competitive integrity, including potential salary-cap complications and the optics of a player-owner influencing roster decisions.
Brady currently serves in a strategic advisory role with the Raiders, assisting with personnel and coaching discussions - responsibilities that further complicated any potential return.
Beyond ownership restrictions, Brady's broadcasting career presents another major obstacle.
Business commitments and timing sealed decision
The former quarterback signed a 10-year, $375 million contract with FOX in 2022, making him the highest-paid sports analyst in history. His agent has stated Brady intends to fulfill the agreement, making a comeback financially impractical.
Speculation about a return intensified after Brady appeared at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic in Los Angeles, where he threw two touchdown passes and showed flashes of his trademark precision at age 48.
Still, multiple barriers - league policy, ownership ties, and media obligations - effectively closed the door on another NFL chapter. Brady, who turns 49 in August, last played during the 2022 season, finishing with:
- 490 completions out of 733 passes
- 66.8% completion rate
- 4,694 yards
- 25 touchdowns
- 9 interceptions
- 90.7 rating
For now, the NFL's message was clear: Brady's playing career cannot coexist with his role as an owner.