The Denver Broncos explored the possibility of signing Drew Brees to a short-term deal following an injury to starting quarterback Bo Nix in January, according to multiple reports. The team’s then-offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi and offensive assistant Pete Carmichael initiated discussions with Brees, who had retired in 2021 after 16 seasons with the New Orleans Saints.
Brees withdrew after a workout revealed wrist discomfort, ending the potential comeback. The Broncos ultimately turned to backup Jarrett Stidham for their AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots, where they were eliminated.
The Broncos’ outreach to Brees occurred in the week leading up to the championship, with Lombardi and Carmichael—both former Saints coaches—speaking to Brees directly. Head coach Sean Payton was not informed until after the season, according to reports. Brees expressed willingness to consider the opportunity but cited concerns about his physical readiness after five years away from the NFL.
NFL rules would have complicated a potential return. Brees was on the Saints’ reserve-retired list, meaning the team would have needed to release him for him to play in the postseason. If another team signed him without New Orleans’ permission, the league could have investigated for tampering. Additionally, NFL regulations require a retired player to return by Week 13 to remain eligible for the remainder of the season and postseason.
The idea of a 47-year-old Brees returning for a high-stakes playoff game drew significant attention, given his Hall of Fame status and history of clutch performances. Brees last played in the NFL during the 2020 season and retired in March 2021, shortly after the Saints’ playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His potential return would have reset his five-year retirement clock, delaying his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction from 2026 to 2031.
The Broncos’ discussions with Brees were first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter ahead of the Monday Night Football game between the Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. The idea gained traction after Nix suffered an ankle fracture in the Divisional Round win over the Buffalo Bills, forcing Denver to pivot to Stidham. Stidham led the Broncos to a loss in the AFC title game, ending their season.
What the Broncos considered:
- Signing Brees as a short-term solution for the AFC Championship Game.
- Using Lombardi and Carmichael as intermediaries, given their prior working relationship with Brees.
- Evaluating Brees’ physical condition through a private workout before proceeding.
Why it didn’t happen:
- Brees reported wrist discomfort during the workout, ending the discussions.
- NFL rules would have required the Saints to release Brees for him to play, creating logistical hurdles.
- The Broncos opted to stick with Stidham, who started the championship game.
The episode remains a footnote in NFL history but highlights the league’s occasional willingness to consider unconventional solutions in high-pressure situations.