The Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick and are expected to select top Indiana prospect Fernando Mendoza. Cousins’ arrival ensures he will have a mentor in the quarterback room and that, if the rookie is not ready, the former Falcons player can start in Week 1 while trying to make the team a contender.

Klint Kubiak is the new head coach in Las Vegas for the 2026 season and already worked three years with Cousins when he was QB coach and offensive coordinator of the Minnesota Vikings. The top quarterback left on the market is no longer available.

Who will be Raiders starting QB in 2026?

Kirk Cousins would have the edge to be the Raiders’ starting quarterback in 2026, considering Fernando Mendoza may not be ready for the NFL immediately after his college football career.

Who will the Raiders draft with the No.1 overall pick?

Despite the arrival of Kirk Cousins, the Raiders are still expected to draft Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. This way, the franchise would have everything in place for a rebuilding process, with a veteran serving as a transition bridge and Mendoza as the future.

Additionally, another important event looming for a comeback could be the Olympics. This was the legend’s response when he was asked what he envisions his role to be as LA 2028 gets closer and whether it will be on the field.

“No, clearly it’s not. LA in 2028 will be a lot of guys like you saw out there on the field to make a big commitment to trying to be their best, go out there and showcase their skill set in front of a global audience. So, if there’s any role I can play, I would love to. Obviously I’ll be supporting. I’ll probably be at some games. I’d love to see the American team win it all.”

Is Tom Brady coming out of retirement?

Tom Brady is not coming out of retirement to play in the NFL in 2026, as he will not receive permission from the league to do so since he is also a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Although the veteran asked about that option, it is not going to happen.

Will Tom Brady return in the 2028 LA Olympics?

Tom Brady ruled himself out as a possible player for Team USA’s roster at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. After what happened at the 2026 Fanatics Flag Football Classic, the former QB publicly said he will not compete for a spot.

“I actually have inquired, and they don’t like that idea very much. We explored a lot of different things, and I’m very happily retired,” he revealed in a recent interview with Alex Sherman.

Considered by many as one of the greatest of all time, Brady today feels comfortable in his executive role. That said, judging by his appearances on the field in Flag Football, he could easily suit up again.

Players who came out of retirement

The NFL has seen several legendary icons who couldn’t resist the urge to return to the field for one final run. Tom Brady provided the most famous recent example when he ended a 40-day retirement in 2022 to play another season with the Buccaneers.

Similarly, Rob Gronkowski ended his brief hiatus in 2020 to reunite with Brady and win another Super Bowl ring in Tampa Bay. Even Marshawn “Beast Mode” Lynch famously came out of retirement twice to suit up for both the Raiders and the Seahawks. Ultimately, these iconic comebacks prove that the competitive fire is incredibly difficult to extinguish.

Brady’s new role

In 2026, Tom Brady serves as a high-profile minority owner and a key strategic advisor for the Las Vegas Raiders. Although he officially holds a 5% stake in the franchise, he acts as a de facto president of football operations, working closely with General Manager John Spytek to lead the team’s massive rebuild.

Brady has been heavily involved in major decisions, including the hiring of head coach Klint Kubiak and evaluating top prospects like Fernando Mendoza for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 Draft. His influence extends to the team’s culture, where he emphasizes discipline and long-term success to turn the organization around after a difficult 2025 season.

TB12’s accolades

Tom Brady has won a record-breaking seven Super Bowl rings throughout his legendary career. He earned his first six titles with the New England Patriots (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX, XLIX, LI, LIII) and secured his final championship with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (LV). With seven rings, Brady has more Super Bowl victories than any single NFL franchise in history.

Following the tournament, debate intensified about whether NFL superstars should be included, especially with Team USA showcasing elite chemistry and experience in the format. The conversation naturally shifted to the possibility of stars like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow or Saquon Barkley joining the race for a spot.

Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl champion, made it clear that reputation alone should not guarantee selection. “There’s going to be a selection process and the best people will play. Team sports are a meritocracy. Whoever is the best and gives the team the best opportunity ultimately to win, that’s who should be out there. We’re a long way from that happening, it’s a couple years, but I think it’s good for the NFL players to see what this game is all about.”

Is Tom Brady coming out of retirement?

Despite speculation after his appearance in the 2026 Flag Football Classic, Tom Brady confirmed he is not planning to come out of retirement. The former quarterback hinted a possible return to NFL, but clarified that his participation was more about promoting the sport than launching a comeback. That effectively rules out the possibility of him trying to secure a roster spot for the 2028 Olympics.

Brady explained that the focus should remain on building the best possible team rather than creating a storyline around his return. While his experience would be valuable, he acknowledged that younger players and active professionals are better suited for the pace of international flag football.

Even without Brady on the field, the debate surrounding NFL participation is expected to grow. If stars like Mahomes, Burrow or Barkley enter the selection pool, Team USA could feature one of the most talented rosters ever assembled in flag football. For Brady, however, the priority is clear: the best players, regardless of background, should earn the opportunity to chase Olympic gold.

The list includes many high-profile names: Rob Gronkowski, Antonio Brown, Ali Marpet, and Ryan Jensen have stepped away from the game. On the defensive side of Bruce Arians’ team, there are also a few cases.

Ndamukong Suh, William Gholston, and Steve McLendon are perhaps the most impactful names on this list of former players. Arians, leading from the sideline, is also no longer coaching in the league.

There are also two particular cases: Jason Pierre-Paul signed in December 2025 to join the team’s practice squad after being without a team for a long time, but he didn’t retire. Leonard Fournette, another notable player, hasn’t played in a while but also hasn’t officially announced his retirement.

Historic day for the Bucs

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made history by becoming the first team to ever play—and win—a Super Bowl in their own home stadium, dominating the Kansas City Chiefs with a final score of 31-9. Tom Brady was named the game’s MVP after throwing three touchdown passes, securing his record-breaking seventh championship ring.

A unique fact from the evening is that due to COVID-19 restrictions, the stadium was filled with a mix of 25,000 live fans and 30,000 cardboard cutouts to create a full-crowd atmosphere, making it the least-attended yet most visually unique Super Bowl in NFL history.

Heroes still in Tampa Bay

Although most of the championship roster has moved on, a few key survivors of Super Bowl LV are still anchoring the team in 2026. Defensive tackle Vita Vea continues to dominate the line of scrimmage, while Antoine Winfield Jr. remains the heart of the secondary.

On the offensive side, cornerstone tackle Tristan Wirfs and veteran wideout Chris Godwin are the last standing pillars of that historic 2020 starting unit still wearing the red and pewter.

David’s farewell

After a successful 14-year career playing at the elite level, Lavonte David brought his NFL stint to an end. His words reflect this turning point in his life.

“It’s time,” David started. “I’ve been playing football since I was 6 years old. Thirty years straight of football. I never missed a year. A lot of time, man. When it’s time, when you know, you know.

“I always wanted to be a guy who wanted to retire on my own terms. Right now is the perfect opportunity for that. I give glory to God for me to be able to play football for this long.”

After the event, Brady said, “I think maybe about different ways to marry a 7-on-7 version of the game versus a flag version where it resembles a little bit more football, might make it more exciting to watch every single day, and get more people involved in it, kind of globally around the world.”

Then, he proposed an even more NFL-oriented idea. “I think, you know, even on the sideline, just thinking about maybe an NFC team next year versus an AFC team, and then kind of sprinkle in some of the great, you know, American flag players. I think that could really help.”

Brady still delivered some great moments

The first play of Tom Brady’s flag football outing was a highlight for the ages. Brady got rushed, he evaded the defender, and threw an absolute dime to Stefon Diggs for a touchdown. At 48 years old, he still had it.

Brady then followed that with an incredible pass to longtime friend Rob Gronkowski for the 2-point conversion. The ever-competitor he is, Brady spoke between losses and said, “My heart is really hurting right now.” Brady also had his own version of the Philly Special in the bag.

Flag football is an Olympic sport now

Flag football is an Olympic sport set to debut at the 2028 LA Games. This prompted many NFL players to get interested in participating. However, Team USA was very dominant during this event, making it clear that they won’t lose their spots just because.

Tom Brady and Logan Paul faced off in the gridiron during a flag football event, where the QB admitted NFL players weren’t prepared. The NFL-WWE crossovers are a very common thing. In the end, both lines of work require big size and immaculate physiques.

Hence, it’s no surprise that 59 NFL players have made WWE appearances. The following list is just players who have actually played an NFL game and appeared on WWE programming. Among the most interesting names, you can find the likes of:

• Bill Goldberg: Atlanta Falcons turned into WWE legend
• Bronko Nagurski: Pro Football Hall of Famer and huge wrestling draw in the 1930s
• Pat McAfee: Pro Bowl punter turned media mogul, has wrestled and commentated WWE events
• Brian Pillman: Linebacker for the Bengals, turned WWE/WCW Legend
• Adam ‘Pacman’ Jones: All Pro who appeared in TNA (WWE-adjacent)
• Reggie White & Kevin Greene: Hall of Famers that appeared at Wrestlemania XI
• Steve McMichael: Super Bowl champion with the ’85 Bears, WCW Legend as a member of the Four Horsemen
• Lawrence Taylor: Pro Football Hall of Famer, main evented Wrestlemania XI against Bam Bam Bigelow.
• Rob Gronkowski: 4x Super Bowl champion, future Hall of Famer, key part of WWE programming for months during 2020
• Lane Johnson and Jason Kelce: Eagles superstars got physical in Wrestlemania 40, helping Rey Mysterio

Brady’s WWE storyline began on a podcast

Tom Brady appeared on the Impaulsive podcast, hosted by WWE superstar, Logan Paul. The former quarterback said Paul’s athleticism was “cute” compared to stuff NFL players do. This sparked a somewhat heated argument between the two.

Then, they both played on a flag football event, where things got chirpy between them. Now, there’s reports that Brady will appear in Wrestlemania 42. With the Grandest Stage of Them All just a few weeks apart, negotiations must ramp up quickly.

Per Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer, “they are in negotiations for Tom Brady, but there’s absolutely not a deal at this point for Tom Brady. So it could happen, obviously, Logan Paul and Tom Brady are working… I think people have seen that coming in, but there could be something in some form at WrestleMania.”

It’s not the first time Brady has flirted with the WWE

Last year, Brady teased his presence at Allegiant Stadium during Wrestlemania 41. “I may be there,” Brady told Fox News back in the day. “But it’s amazing what’s going on there[,] and it’s amazing what’s happening with WWE and all the different things surrounding that.” However, he didn’t appear.

For now, the experienced flag football roster appears to have the edge. Despite the win, the event highlighted the growing interest from NFL stars in competing in the Olympic format. Players such as Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen have already been mentioned as potential candidates, while Brady’s participation added even more attention.

Team USA head coach Jorge Cascudo acknowledged both the achievement and the looming challenge. “We’ve got to enjoy this moment and take advantage of it because once they get to know the game and the skills, then we’re in trouble. But for now, we’re the champs.”

Team USA coach sends warning after beating NFL stars in 2026 Fanatics Flag Football Classic

Jorge Cascudo’s statement reinforced the idea that Team USA’s current advantage comes from experience in the flag football format. While Doucette and his teammates dominated the timing, spacing, and quick decision-making required, several NFL quarterbacks struggled to adapt to the pace. That gap helped Team USA control games against high-profile opponents.

However, the coach made it clear that the situation could change once NFL players become more familiar with the rules. If stars like Mahomes, Brady, or Burrow fully commit to learning the format, the competition for quarterback and skill-position roles could become significantly tighter heading into Los Angeles 2028.

The coach even mentioned Odell Beckham Jr. as a possible name to make the roster after his impressive performance. For now, Team USA holds momentum after proving they can beat household names on a big stage. Still, Cascudo’s warning suggests the battle is just beginning, with experienced flag football players trying to defend their spots before the Olympic tournament.

His performance stood out even more considering the names he outplayed, including Tom Brady, Joe Burrow, and Jalen Hurts. While the NFL stars showed flashes, Doucette’s familiarity with the timing, spacing, and strategy of flag football made a clear difference.

After the event, Doucette acknowledged the significance of the moment and the exposure it provided for the sport. “I’m honored and grateful to be here. Thanks to the NFL for giving me this opportunity. For me, my teammates and the flag football world. They gave us a great opportunity to showcase our sport.”

Darrell Doucette sends message to Patrick Mahomes

The strong showing quickly sparked debate about who should lead Team USA at quarterback for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, putting Darrell Doucette in an unexpected race with Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and even Burrow.

The spotlight also brought renewed attention to Doucette’s past comments suggesting he could be a better flag football quarterback than Mahomes due to his IQ in the format. After the 2026 event, Darrell clarified that his words were taken out of context and were never meant as a direct comparison with the star of the Kansas City Chiefs.

“It was totally misconstructed and misunderstood. All I was speaking of was giving my brothers a fair chance to make the 2028 Olympics. We came out this weekend with that on our minds. Let’s show these guys that we are talented and that we are flag football. Not to be overlooked by anyone in the world.”

With the Olympic debate now underway, Doucette’s performance has placed him firmly in the conversation. The Team USA quarterback not only delivered results against elite competition but also strengthened the case for keeping experienced flag football players at the center of the roster. As the Los Angeles 2028 tournament approaches, the battle for the starting quarterback role is suddenly wide open.

“I love being involved in the NFL. Like I said, I love football. I love sports. I was very fortunate in my career to be around amazing people and mentors like Robert Kraft, as an owner of a team, and now getting to work with Mark Davis in the role that I’m at, and to see kind of a different team shape. The way that things are done and how we’re evolving and growing, and, you know, we certainly have a long way to go. What I learned about football in 23 seasons is, it’s a tremendous amount of resilience, adversity, discipline, determination, communication of an entire organization to see really the value in committing to one another.”

Clearly, the legendary Super Bowl champion answered the first part of the question about his greater involvement in Raiders decisions, but he did not want to talk at all about what happened with Crosby.

Tom Brady and the Maxx Crosby failed trade with Raiders

Various reports have indicated that for the 2026 season, Tom Brady has chosen to intervene more in key decisions with the Las Vegas Raiders. In just a few weeks, the team already fired head coach Pete Carroll and will begin a new process with Klint Kubiak.

The other major move was completing a trade to send Maxx Crosby to the Ravens in exchange for two first-round picks. That way, they gained draft capital and significant salary cap space. However, Baltimore argued that the player did not pass a physical test and the deal wasn’t officially completed.

When Brady faced that question at the Flag Football Classic, the former quarterback did not want to give clues about his opinion on the Crosby trade and preferred to focus on his role as an owner.

“So, you know, it’s always, I think, process over outcomes. I think we’re all trying and all of us in our own role that we have, whether it’s an ownership role or a personnel department or strength and conditioning and athletic training and obviously players and positions and offense, defense, everyone’s got to come together. Everyone has to work incredibly hard for the people next to them.”

Joe Burrow and Jalen Hurts showed that, for now, NFL quarterbacks are not ready to adapt to the rules and pace of flag football. For this reason, Team USA’s quarterback, Darrell Doucette, has taken a big lead two years ahead.

Tom Brady also participated in the exhibition tournament to gauge his level against the younger players. Although the seven-time Super Bowl winner hinted at a possible return after his flashes with Stefon Diggs and Rob Gronkowski, the reality is that he might not get a spot in the Olympics due to his age. He would be nearly 50 years old before the event in LA.

Patrick Mahomes and the QB dilemma in flag football

In the coming months, the NFL and USA Football will have to make a very important decision: go to Los Angeles 2028 with a team full of NFL stars like Patrick Mahomes to promote the sport on a global stage like the Olympics, or try to win the gold medal with the current flag football team that doesn’t have any big names at all.

Until a few weeks ago, NFL players seemed like a lock to lead the United States in the first-ever Olympic flag football competition. Now, not a single spot is guaranteed for any league star.

At the quarterback position, Mahomes is at the top of the option board, although after what was seen in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, mobile QBs like Lamar Jackson or Josh Allen might have an edge. Considering that ideally two players will be taken at that position, the race will be very tight.

Additionally, the Kansas City Chiefs leader has jokingly said that it’s very likely he won’t be ready to compete in the Olympic tournament due to his age and that it might be best to leave that spot for younger players. Nevertheless, Mahomes would be 32 years old, in his prime, and could be the biggest star of the entire American delegation, leading a possible flag football Dream Team. The debate has begun.