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Drew Brees reportedly considered coming out of retirement to join Broncos in AFC title game last season

Prior to their clash with the New England Patriots in the 2026 AFC Championship Game, the Denver Broncos explored an extraordinary roster move under head coach Sean Payton. Denver contacted legendary quarterback Drew Brees to gauge his appetite for a comeback following a fractured ankle suffered by starting quarterback Bo Nix.

Having stepped away from the sport following the 2020 campaign, Brees had fulfilled the required five-season waiting span that enabled his enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August 2026.

Word of the potential reunion between Payton and his former passer emerged before Denver's Monday night fixture against the Kansas City Chiefs. Although Brees contemplated suiting up to salvage Denver's title run, he ultimately declined the offer, preserving his retirement status and subsequent Hall of Fame eligibility.