In 2023, Tom Brady officially announced his retirement from the NFL. However, many fans still dream of seeing the legendary quarterback make a stunning return—and now, Matt Ryan has added fuel to the fire with a surprising take.

There’s no doubt that Tom Brady is one of the greatest football players of all time, if not the greatest. With seven Super Bowl rings to his name, he cemented his legacy as an elite quarterback and an icon of the sport.

But as with all careers, even the greatest must eventually come to an end. Brady retired in 2023 after briefly returning from his first retirement in 2022. Despite his departure, fans continue to hope for one more run from the GOAT.

Matt Ryan reveals what he thinks about a Brady return

Tom Brady has nothing left to prove. When critics argued he was only successful because of Bill Belichick, he left the Patriots and won another Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers—silencing the doubters once again.

His greatness wasn’t just built on talent, but also on work ethic, leadership, and an unmatched competitive drive. However, like all athletes, he eventually had to walk away—choosing to retire while still relatively healthy.

His 2023 retirement marked the end of an era, but because of his previous return, some fans still believe a second comeback could happen. That door hasn’t fully closed for everyone—especially not for former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan.

Ryan recently said he believes Brady could still play if he really wanted to. While he didn’t confirm any plans for a comeback, his comments have certainly reignited fan speculation.

Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots looks on before the AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Tennessee Titans at Gillette Stadium on January 13, 2018 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

“I think he could,” Matt Ryan said on Tom Brady’s chance of playing in the NFL currently, via the Dan Patrick Show. “I mean, I think the way he takes care of himself, he looks more fit now than he’s ever been. And I think the style with which he played leads to being able to play longer. Not moving around, not having to run and do all those different things. Because he can still throw it, he could still spin it at the end.”

How old is Tom Brady?

At 47 years old—and turning 48 in less than a month—a Brady comeback seems highly unlikely. While he may still be in excellent physical shape, competing at quarterback in today’s NFL at that age would be extremely difficult.

Brady has teased the idea of returning a few times, though mostly in a joking manner. For now, he appears content in retirement, analyzing games for FOX Sports and enjoying life off the field.