Drew Brees Nearly Came Out Of Retirement To Play For Denver Against New England

Drew Brees retired as the top passer in New Orleans Saints history. He secured the franchise's only Super Bowl title back in 2010, and led the franchise to the playoffs eight times. All of (most of) that, alongside Head Coach Sean Payton.

The legendary quarterback officially left the field in 2021, before entering the Pro Football Hall of Fame this summer. He still holds franchise records for Passing Yards and Completions, solidifying his legacy in the NFL.

But he almost changed that legacy...allegedly.

How Did the Denver Broncos Attempt a Comeback?

The Denver Broncos lost starting quarterback Bo Nix to a fractured ankle during the Divisional Playoffs last year. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Denver Offensive Assistants Joe Lombardi and Pete Carmichael immediately contacted Brees about playing in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.

Apparently, Denver Head Coach Sean Payton was unaware his staff reached out to his former quarterback. Brees was willing to test his physical conditioning, and ability to even thrown passes.

Was a Return Actually Possible for the Quarterback?

The report says that Brees tried to workout with some throwing, but it wasn't going to work out. Discomfort in his wrist ended the comeback attempt before the Broncos could even seriously evaluate the possibility.

But even if Brees felt healthy...NFL roster regulations likely would have prevented the signing. Analysts noted that league rules prohibit adding unretired players directly into a conference championship game.