5 retired superstars who could return to the NFL
When NFL players announce their retirement, it usually marks the end of their careers, but not always. The average age of retirement in the NFL is currently around 27. Retired players have many options with what to do with the rest of their lives. One of them is unretiring and returning to the football field.
Prior to the start of an NFL season, there are always rumors about certain superstars coming out of retirement and rejoining a team for one more run at a Super Bowl.
As the 2022 NFL season approaches, it's time to once again speculate over which retired players could potentially make a return.
Here are five players who recently retired, but have left the door open for a potential comeback.
#1 Rob Gronkowski
Rob Gronkowski retired for the second time in his career during the 2022 NFL offseason. He first retired during the 2019 offseason. He sat out the entire 2019 campaign before returning in 2020 and joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
It's pretty clear that Gronkowski is still capable of playing at a high level as he had a solid 2021-22 season, recording 802 receiving yards and six touchdowns across 12 games. It wouldn't be too surprising if he made another comeback and reunited with Tom Brady once again.
#2 Drew Brees
Drew Brees officially announced his retirement following the 2020-21 season, having spent two decades in the league. He put together one of the greatest careers by any quarterback in NFL history. He was the all-time passing yards leader when he retired and won a Super Bowl ring with the New Orleans Saints in 2010.
Despite speculation from media about my future this fall, I’m currently undecided. I may work for NBC, I may play football again, I may focus on business and philanthropy, I may train for the pickleball tour, senior golf tour, coach my kids or all of the above. I’ll let you know
Brees sat out the entire 2021-22 season, but made headlines when he mentioned the possibility of a return in a post on Twitter. Injuries played a large role in his decision to retire, so if he's fully healthy, returning to the league is a possibility.