After Tom Brady's February declaration of retirement "for good," many believed his illustrious NFL career, marked by seven Super Bowl victories, had finally come to an end. However, recent comments by Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield Jr. have reignited speculation about a potential Brady comeback.
Speaking on Richard Sherman's podcast, Winfield Jr. expressed uncertainty about Brady's retirement, acknowledging the quarterback's previous unexpected return after initially retiring following the 2021 season. "I really thought he was done… and then he surprised me," Winfield Jr. admitted. He hinted at the possibility of Brady reconsidering his decision after a break, saying, "He might be like, ‘Man, that’s it. I had enough of a break. I’m trying to come back and play.’"
Winfield Jr.'s remarks suggest that the Buccaneers are still hoping for Brady's return. "I’m sure we’re still reaching out to him trying to see if he’s trying to come back to the team," Winfield Jr. revealed, adding, "Hey, it could happen. Anything’s possible."
Brady's first retirement was short-lived, as he returned to lead the Buccaneers to a Super Bowl title in his initial season with the team. Despite throwing for 4,694 yards and 25 touchdowns last season, the Buccaneers' playoff run ended with a wild-card loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
As the 2023 season approaches, the Buccaneers face a crucial decision regarding Brady's successor. Current roster contenders include Baker Mayfield, Kyle Trask, and John Wolford. Mayfield, who played for both the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams last season, adds another layer of intrigue to the quarterback competition in Tampa Bay.
