Tom Brady refusing to fully shut door on retirement is out of this world

The New England Patriots finally saw their prodigal son walk away from football. Tom Brady officially called it a career after 22 seasons, 20 of which were spent in Foxborough. After nearly pulling off an insane playoff comeback with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in his second season with the team, TB12 decided enough was enough.

Brady didn’t go out due to a lack of ability. In fact, he led the league in passing yards and compiled the third-most single-season passing yards in NFL history. Still, at age 44, Brady seemed to think that the time was right to close the book on that part of his life and leave football behind.

At least, that’s what most assumed. Ever the competitor, Brady’s latest episode of his “Let’s Go!” podcast made it sound like there’s a nonzero chance we see him on the field again. If the right situation comes up, it sounds like TB12 could be swayed.

Brady said that he isn’t actively looking to come out of retirement, claiming that he’s at peace with his decision. However, he did qualify that statement with a “never say never” when asked about a potential return. TB12 coming back at any point would be earth-shattering news.

Will New England Patriots legend Tom Brady return to football?

"“You know, I’m just gonna take things as they come,” Brady said. “I think that’s the best way to put it and I don’t think anything, you know, you never say never. At the same time, I know that I feel very good about my decision. I don’t know how I’ll feel six months from now.”"

Brady has his legacy encased in solid gold thanks to his seven championships and bevy of statistical records. In theory, the only thing a team could offer him is another paycheck. However, considering the competitive fire we’ve seen from him throughout his career, we can’t totally rule this out as a potential option.

Even in his advanced age, there might be some team out there willing to give Brady a call if they need the upgrade at quarterback. After all, if he threw for 5,300 yards despite turmoil at wide receiver, why wouldn’t he garner a certain degree of interest from any team looking to make a title run with a near-perfect situation like Tampa provided two seasons ago?

Brady has earned the right to do as he pleases after giving more to the game of football than just about anyone ever. We just can’t believe he’s not 100% calling it quits as he nears 45 years old.

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