Broncos’ Potential Tampering with Drew Brees Ahead of AFC Championship
Adam Schefter of ESPN sent shockwaves through the NFL community just before the “Monday Night Football” matchup between the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. Schefter reported that the Broncos were in discussions with Drew Brees regarding a possible return before their AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots in January.
This move could result in complications for the Broncos with the league. Schefter mentioned that Joe Lombardi, the Broncos’ then-offensive coordinator, and offensive assistant Pete Carmichael, engaged Brees in conversations about returning to start for Denver or support Jarrett Stidham after Bo Nix’s ankle injury during the Broncos’ victory over the Buffalo Bills in the Divisional Round.
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The situation took a turn when Brees experienced wrist discomfort during his workout, which halted these plans. Mike Florio from Pro Football Talk reacted to Schefter’s report, stating it was a “big, fat nothing burger” due to certain NFL regulations. First, a retired player must return by Week 13 to be eligible for post-season play. Second, Brees is listed on the Saints’ reserve-retired list.
If Brees were released by New Orleans to join the AFC Championship, he would face waivers. Should Broncos representatives discuss playing options with Brees without Saints’ consent, it might constitute tampering.
Florio explained, “That doesn’t mean the Broncos didn’t talk to Brees, as Schefter reports. If, however, then-offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi and offensive assistant Pete Carmichael spoke to Brees without permission from the Saints, it would have been tampering.”
This raises a crucial question. Will the league investigate the Broncos for possible tampering, stemming from Schefter’s report? The league might initiate an inquiry even without a formal complaint from the Saints.
Sean Payton was reportedly unaware of the Broncos’ attempt to lure Brees until the offseason. Despite this, the head coach could face consequences from his staff’s actions last season.
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