Adam Schefter from ESPN captured the attention of the NFL community with an unexpected report. Just prior to the “Monday Night Football” game between the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs, Schefter revealed that the Broncos were in discussions with Drew Brees regarding a possible return for the AFC Championship Game versus the New England Patriots in January.
This situation could result in complications for the Broncos with the league. According to Schefter, Joe Lombardi, the Broncos’ then-offensive coordinator, and offensive assistant Pete Carmichael engaged with Brees about stepping in as quarterback. This came after Bo Nix suffered an ankle injury in the Broncos’ win against the Buffalo Bills during the Divisional Round.
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Brees experienced wrist discomfort during a workout, which terminated further consideration of his return. Mike Florio from Pro Football Talk labeled Schefter’s report as insignificant for several reasons. The NFL requires retired players to return by Week 13. After this deadline, they cannot participate in the remaining season or postseason. Additionally, Brees remains on the Saints’ reserve-retired list.
If the Saints had released Brees for the AFC championship, league rules would subject him to waivers. The league might penalize the Broncos for tampering if they communicated with Brees without the Saints’ permission. Florio remarked, “This doesn’t mean the Broncos didn’t talk to Brees, as Schefter reports. If, however, discussions occurred without Saints’ approval, it would constitute tampering.”
An investigation could follow regarding possible tampering by the Broncos, according to Schefter’s report. Even absent a complaint from the Saints, the league might take action. Sean Payton was unaware of the Broncos’ attempt to recruit Brees for the AFC championship until the offseason. Yet, Payton could face repercussions due to the actions of his staff the previous season.
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