Earlier this week, future Hall of Famer and New England Patriots icon Tom Brady revealed in an interview with CNBC that he had recently seriously considered returning to the field. However, the 15-time Pro Bowler also revealed that the NFL "didn't like the idea very much."
It wasn't because they didn't want to see the 48-year-old make a spectacular return to the NFL. This was because he wanted to do so and retain his minority ownership in the Las Vegas Raiders. Which is a big no-no. Still, he clearly has a desire to play, and that's probably why he was the driving force behind creating the Fanatics Flag Football Classic this year.
But for a man who ruined his marriage just to play one more season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it may not be enough. Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio added to that thought on Sunday. He wrote, "Still got the itch. He can still play. He'll be better right now than some of the players who are going to be starters in 2026."
"Will the itch go away? Possibly. If not, selling his stake back to Mark Davis could be an easier path out of a situation in which his role doesn't match the franchise's expectations."
On the outside chance that Tom Brady surprisingly gives up his stake in the Raiders for another season in the league, let's take a look at five teams he would be willing to play for.
las vegas raiders
Obviously, the most likely option would be to suit up for the team he was signed to. Las Vegas was rumored to be a landing spot when he left New England several years ago, and he clearly has a bond with majority owner Mark Davis. While the Raiders are no closer to a title contender, Brady would have unheard of power as their starting QB.
This would be a dream scenario for the franchise. They'll be getting a year from, arguably, the greatest QB ever, and they're projected to have No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza learn from him for a season.
pittsburgh steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are playoff contenders, but they haven't had a true Pro Bowl-level QB since the days of Ben Roethlisberger. That's why they've learned about Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers over the last two years. There is a real possibility that Brady could perform worse than the two future Hall of Famers. Or, he could be better, and it could be enough to lead Pittsburgh to the AFC Championship.
indianapolis colts
The Indianapolis Colts have a mixup at the QB1 spot. Daniel Jones was great for most of the 2025 season before he broke a bone in his foot and then tore his Achilles. They are now forced to hope that he can return sooner than expected because they could not find a better player in free agency or the draft. However, Brady could have if he was available.
The Colts looked like a Super Bowl contender before Jones got injured. And Philip Rivers walked off the street at 44 and looked good at times because of the weapons he had. At 48 years old, Brady can help Indy reach the playoffs and advance.
carolina panthers
The Carolina Panthers also have a very tough situation at the QB1 spot as this is a make or break year for former No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young. However, if Tom Brady were available, Carolina would take advantage of the opportunity and make every impact he can if it helps them win some games in the playoffs next year.
atlanta falcons
Despite having a messy QB situation in 2025, the Atlanta Falcons are still 8-9. Same record as the division champion Panthers. With weapons like Bijan Robinson and Drake London, adding Brady to the mix could be enough to get them to 10 wins and homefield in a playoff game. Plus, whenever Michael Penix Jr. returns, he can also learn a thing or two by sitting down with the NFL legend.
