Sean Payton says he didn't know about the communication with Drew Brees
Key Points:
- Multiple Broncos coaches reportedly contacted retired quarterback Drew Brees about joining the team after Bo Nix's season-ending injury, but key facts were overlooked, including Brees' inability to throw with his right arm.
- Brees remains on the Saints' reserve-retired list, making it impossible for the Broncos to sign him without the Saints' permission, raising potential tampering concerns.
- Former Saints coach Sean Payton denied direct involvement, stating he was unaware of any such contacts until after the fact.
- The report highlights the complications for retired players wanting to return, as being on a reserve-retired list restricts signing with other teams unless released, unlike cases such as Philip Rivers.
- Unauthorized contact by Broncos assistants Joe Lombardi and Pete Carmichael with Brees could constitute tampering under NFL rules.