Tom Brady Inquired About NFL Comeback, But League "Didn't Like That Idea"

The seven-time Super Bowl champion is happily retired and focused on his business ventures.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:25pm

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Tom Brady revealed that he inquired with the NFL about the possibility of making a comeback as a minority owner of a team, but the league "didn't like that idea very much." Brady, who last played in 2022 before announcing his retirement, is currently a 5% owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. However, NFL rules prohibit players from also being owners, so Brady would need to sell his stake before returning to the field. The 49-year-old quarterback said he's "very happily retired" and is focused on his various business interests.

Why it matters

Brady's potential comeback would have been a major story in the NFL, as he is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. However, the league's rules around ownership make it clear that they are not interested in allowing Brady to play while also being a team owner. This highlights the complex regulations governing the league and the challenges high-profile players face when transitioning into business roles after retirement.

The details

Brady told CNBC that he "actually inquired" with the NFL about the possibility of making a comeback as a minority owner, but the league "didn't like that idea very much." NFL rules prohibit players from also being owners, so Brady would need to sell his 5% stake in the Las Vegas Raiders before he could return to the field. Brady said he's "very happily retired" and is focused on his various business ventures, including his participation in the recent Fanatics Flag Football Classic.

  • Brady last played in an NFL game in 2022 before announcing his retirement.
  • Brady turns 49 years old in August 2026.

The players

Tom Brady

A seven-time Super Bowl champion quarterback who is currently a 5% owner of the Las Vegas Raiders.

NFL

The National Football League, which prohibits players from also being owners of teams.

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What they’re saying

“I actually have inquired, and they don't like that idea very much.”

— Tom Brady

“I'm very happily retired. Let me just say that, too.”

— Tom Brady

The takeaway

Brady's potential comeback attempt highlights the complex regulations governing the NFL and the challenges high-profile players face when transitioning into business roles after retirement. Despite his desire to return to the field, the league's rules make it clear that they are not interested in allowing Brady to play while also being a team owner.