NFL: Tom Brady is « certain not to play again »

Tom Brady reaffirmed Thursday that he has no plans to play in the NFL again after retiring in February.

« I’m sure I won’t play it again, I’ve tried to say it plainly and I hate to keep professing it, because I’ve told people so many times before, » Brady told Sports Illustrated in response to a question about fans and the media who continue to imagine scenarios in which he could return to the field.

Brady, 45, said he is looking forward to starting his career as an analyst for Fox Sports in 2024 and pursuing « opportunities ahead » with the Las Vegas Raiders, having recently agreed to a buy a minority stake in the franchise. He also wants to spend more time with his children.

“Spending as much time as possible with my children, seeing them grow and supporting them in their projects is very important work and I take it very seriously. »

Raiders owner Mark Davis announced last week that Brady had agreed to join the organization’s ownership group, subject to NFL approval. As with all potential minority and majority owners, at least 24 current NFL team owners must approve Brady’s arrival.

Brady also retired in February last year, but reversed his decision after 41 days and returned to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a third season. Should he ever decide to play for the Raiders, as an owner, a dual role with the franchise would have to be approved by NFL owners.

Brady is also part of the ownership group of the Las Vegas Aces, the WNBA champion team.

Brady announced his retirement at the end of the 2022 season on Feb. 1, after 23 seasons and seven Super Bowl titles. The three-time NFL MVP won six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots and one with the Buccaneers. He finished his career as the NFL leader in career passing yards (89,214) and touchdowns (649).