Tom Brady could be set to end all talks of him ever returning to the NFL and resume his playing career.
The legendary quarterback walked away from the sport for the second time earlier this year, after seven Super Bowl wins and 23 seasons. Brady did retire in 2022, but came back for a final season before calling it a day in February, this time saying it was "for good".
But his latest developments might force him to keep to that word, with conversations and rumours still swirling that he could return to play at some point this season.
The 45-year-old is reportedly in deep discussions to become a limited partner of the Las Vegas Raiders. He already has a minority stake in the Las Vegas Aces WNBA team and both organisations are owned by Mark Davis.
ESPN have reported that talks between the two sides have been ongoing for a number of weeks and could be concluded within the coming days. While Brady's investment has been reported as 'passive', it would almost certainly mean that his playing days are behind him.
The NFL rules state that if he was to become a limited partner of the Raiders, he would be unable to resume his playing career unless he applied for and was approved a dual role - which is voted on by owners of the other 31 franchises.
The report suggests he has no interest in returning to play for the Raiders, despite them being coached by his former offensive play-caller Josh McDaniels. The Raiders gave Brady's former back-up Jimmy Garoppolo a three-year deal this off-season that will see him start for at least the next two seasons.
Should a deal go through, it would bring an end to rumours that the quarterback could return to action in the 2023 season - being linked to both the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins.
Brady is set to take a year away from the sport in 2023, before joining FOX Sports' team after signing a $375 million, 10-year role as an analyst.
