Tom Brady has informed CNBC Sports that he has consulted with the National Football League (NFL) regarding the policies for returning to the league as a player while retaining his minority ownership stake in the Las Vegas Raiders.
In the interview, Brady stated, "They weren't overly fond of the idea. We explored a lot of different possibilities, and I'm genuinely very content with my retirement life at the moment."
Brady mentioned that since acquiring a minority stake in the Raiders, he has been assisting the team's management with player personnel and coaching staff decisions in the capacity of a "strategic advisor."
Tom Brady may not be making a comeback to the NFL, but he has indeed explored the feasibility of a return. The legendary quarterback, formerly of the New England Patriots, has frequently been the subject of comeback rumors. This week, he revealed to CNBC Sports that he inquired with the NFL about the rules for returning as a player while keeping his minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders, although he currently has no plans to return.
"I did inquire, and they weren't particularly enthusiastic about the idea," Brady said during an interview related to a World Cup advertising campaign with Ferrero. "We discussed many different possibilities, and I am genuinely very satisfied with my retired life. I can state that clearly."
An NFL spokesperson indicated that if Brady were to seriously pursue a return to play, he would first be required to divest his entire ownership interest in the Raiders, in accordance with a policy established in 2023 that prohibits players or team employees from holding ownership stakes in teams.
"Beyond that, a player-owner scenario would also involve salary cap complications," the spokesperson added.
Last week, Brady participated in a flag football game organized by Fanatics and threw a touchdown pass to wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Although Brady admitted he enjoyed the feeling of being back on the field, he stated, "If there was any takeaway, it was that the game further confirmed for me that I am content with being retired."
Brady noted that since purchasing his minority stake in the Raiders, he has been acting in a "strategic advisor" role, helping the team's management with decisions related to player personnel and the coaching staff.
"I'm just a minority owner. So there isn't a formal job description or daily responsibilities associated with the role," he said. "But I'm always available to talk if anyone needs me. I want everyone to succeed and perform at their best, to help build a winning culture in Las Vegas and restore the Raiders to greatness—I'm happy to be a part of that."