Drew Brees couldn't have unretired to play for Broncos in AFC Championship

NBC Sports • September 15, 2026 • sports

Key Points:

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that retired quarterback Drew Brees considered coming out of retirement to play for the Broncos in the AFC Championship after starter Bo Nix's injury.
However, Brees remains on the Saints' reserve-retired list, meaning he cannot play for another team after a certain deadline without being released and passing through waivers.
If Broncos coaches contacted Brees without the Saints' permission, it could constitute tampering, which the NFL might investigate even without a formal complaint.
The potential move was ultimately halted due to Brees' wrist discomfort and his inability to throw effectively with his right arm because of a past shoulder injury.
Overall, the situation appears to be a non-issue but could cause trouble for the Broncos if tampering rules were violated.