Drew Brees Considered Unretiring After Broncos QB Injury

The Hall of Fame QB says he thought about playing again this season after a key player went down.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In a recent podcast interview, former NFL quarterback Drew Brees revealed that he considered coming out of retirement during the 2025 season after the Denver Broncos lost their starting quarterback Bo Nix to a season-ending ankle injury. Brees said he had "some conversations" about returning to the league, but ultimately decided his body couldn't handle the physical demands of playing again.

Why it matters

Brees' comments provide a rare glimpse into the thought process of a retired NFL star considering a comeback, especially in the wake of a key injury to another team's quarterback. It highlights the challenges and tough decisions faced by aging players who still feel they have something left to give.

The details

Brees, who is 47 years old, said he was "drinking a tequila" when he had a moment where he thought he might be able to play that week. He said he "switched to water" and started preparing his body, but realized the next morning that his arm strength was no longer there due to previous shoulder and wrist injuries. Brees threw passes to his 13-year-old son and determined "it's not there" - he didn't have the physical capabilities to make the necessary throws.

  • In the 2025 NFL season, the Denver Broncos lost starting quarterback Bo Nix to a season-ending ankle injury during the playoffs.
  • Brees discussed the possibility of unretiring in a recent interview on the "New Heights" podcast with Jason Kelce and Travis Kelce.

The players

Drew Brees

A Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback who played in the NFL from 2001 to 2020, primarily with the New Orleans Saints. Brees is considered one of the greatest passers in NFL history.

Bo Nix

The starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos who suffered a season-ending ankle injury during the 2025 NFL playoffs.

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos, who previously coached Brees with the New Orleans Saints.

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What they’re saying

“There was a moment this year where, literally, I was drinking a tequila and something happened where I thought there might be a chance where I could play that week. And I literally switched to water, and I started thinking about going to bed early and getting up the next day and getting my body nice and nose and lose and going out and throwing to see if I can even pull it off.”

— Drew Brees, Retired NFL Quarterback (New Heights Podcast)

What’s next

The Broncos will have to determine their quarterback plans for the 2026 season after Nix's injury, with Jarrett Stidham currently the only other QB under contract.

The takeaway

Brees' willingness to consider a comeback, even briefly, shows the strong pull the game of football can have on elite players, even after retirement. While his body ultimately couldn't handle the rigors of an NFL season, Brees' comments provide a fascinating look at the mindset of a legendary QB weighing a potential return to the field.