Tom Brady Discusses Retirement and NFL Return

It’s not really a comeback, at least not according to Tom Brady. In a recent CNBC interview, he shared that he once inquired about the possibility of returning to the NFL, even suggesting he could do so while owning a stake in the Las Vegas Raiders.

However, the league didn’t seem too keen on the idea. Brady, who acquired a 5% share of the Raiders in October 2024, described the NFL’s response as somewhat disapproving. He noted, “When I actually reached out to them, they didn’t really like the idea. So, let’s just leave it at that.”

At 48 years old, Brady insists that he’s quite content with his retirement. He stated, “We explored different things and I’m very happy to retire. Let me just say that.”

Brady first stepped away from the game after the 2021 season but reversed that decision just two months later, eventually playing one last season with the Buccaneers before retiring permanently on February 1, 2023.

An NFL spokesperson mentioned to CNBC that for Brady to play again, he would have to give up his ownership stake in the Raiders, citing potential salary cap complications linked to being both a player and owner.

Since retiring, Brady has taken on a significant role as the lead analyst for Fox’s NFL coverage, teaming up with Kevin Burkhardt. They recently called the Eagles vs. Chiefs matchup in the 2025 Super Bowl.

In a lighter note, Brady did make an appearance this past weekend at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic in Los Angeles. He managed to throw for two touchdowns and 85 yards across limited play in two games. “I loved playing in flag games,” he commented. “I’m glad I didn’t get hit. I do a lot of things I really enjoy. Throwing passes to great athletes on the field never gets old. Yet, that game really reaffirmed to me that I’m happy in retirement.”