Total Pro Sports
Years ago, a story detailed that Tom Brady and Sean Payton nearly teamed up with the Miami Dolphins. Now, with Payton with the Denver Broncos, some wondered whether the seven-time Super Bowl champion could save his season.
The Broncos lost starting quarterback Bo Nix for the season. He sustained an ankle injury and was later escorted out of the stadium in a black SUV.
Unfortunately for hopeful fans, Brady cannot be their savior. As detailed by CBS Sports analyst John Breech, Brady’s involvement with the Las Vegas Raiders prevents him from suiting up for another team.
In his latest column, he explained why neither Brady nor Derek Carr is a suitable option for the Denver Broncos:
“If you own part of an NFL team, you’re no longer allowed to suit up for any team in the NFL, which eliminates Brady, who officially became a minority owner in the Raiders back in October 2024,” Breech explained. “Tom Brady can’t play, but two other MVPs could. As for Carr, he’s still under contract with the Saints, so the Broncos would have to trade for him, but since the trade deadline has already past, that wouldn’t be possible.”
Brady would also have to step away from his contractual obligations with Fox. So, while a comeback might be possible, it’s not going to happen this season.
The Broncos will now have to turn to backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham. Notably, he’ll face the New England Patriots, the same team that drafted him in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, in the AFC Championship Game.
Still, Sean Payton seems more than confident in him. While he’s not a starter, he believes he’s a starting-caliber backup:
“He’s ready,” Payton said. “I said this at the beginning of the season, I’ve got a two that’s capable of starting for a handful, a number of teams. And I know he feels the same way. Watch out. Just watch. He’s experienced. He’s played in games. One of Stiddy’s great strengths is his mental aptitude and his progression and understanding plays. He’s very accurate. He’s got a lot to his ball.”
“I’ve got a 2 that’s capable of starting for a number of teams… watch out” 👀
Sean Payton’s message to the NFL about Jarrett Stidham 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/IIOqR5Ntav
— DNVR Broncos (@DNVR_Broncos) January 18, 2026
Stidham has made 20 appearances (four starts) in his career. He’s played for the Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, and now the Broncos, logging 1,422 passing yards, eight touchdowns, and eight picks while completing 59.4 percent of his passes.
He didn’t play in the regular season this year and hasn’t thrown an official pass since 2023. Even so, he stood up in the preseason, completing 30 of 38 passes for 376 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions.
