Former player Drew Brees nearly came out of retirement last season to make a stunning return for the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game after starting quarterback Bo Nix suffered a serious ankle injury in the divisional round. With the team facing a significant void ahead of a crucial matchup against the New England Patriots, former New Orleans Saints assistants on Sean Payton's staff quickly explored whether the legendary quarterback would be willing to execute an unprecedented playoff comeback.

The initial contact with Brees occurred under unique circumstances, as he was approached about filling the sudden vacancy just hours after learning of his selection to the Hall of Fame. NFL insider Ed Werder provided details about how these secret discussions unfolded on social media, sharing the exact words used:

“HOF QB Drew Brees tells me he was contacted by former Saints coaches on Sean Payton’s staff about playing in the AFC Championship Game for injured Bo Nix the morning after Dan Fouts did the door knock informing him he was voted into the HOF. Brees jokingly checked with HOF CEO Jim Porter to confirm coming out of retirement wouldn’t create delay in his HOF status. Once assured nothing would change regarding his 2026 HOF induction, Brees took son Callen to nearby field to throw. Mentally, he was in for the Denver offer if he could perform physically and planned to convey that directly to Payton. Instead, Brees said his right wrist and shoulder were so damaged she couldn’t throw 15 yards with necessary velocity. That was the end of it.”

The harsh physical reality ended the brief attempt and compelled the Broncos to rely on Jarrett Stidham. Head coach Sean Payton later said he was completely caught off guard by the situation. He emphasized that he never discussed a comeback with his former quarterback and felt like an outsider, discovering the secret discussions only the following offseason.