Is star quarterback Tom Brady returning to the NFL just a few months after ending his career? Reports and rumours are piling up that “TB12” is at least keeping himself physically in shape and thus keeping the option open.

Munich – Quarterback Tom Brady ended his active career in February. But was that really it for the “G.O.A.T.”?

In recent days, there have been more and more rumours and reports that the 44-year-old has apparently not hung up his boots for good yet.

The latest reports do not speak of a possible comeback of the seven-time Super Bowl winner, but rather Brady is said to be still in competitive shape and thus at least keeping the option of a return open.

Expert believes in return

“I guess Brady walks around with a water jug all the time to make sure he’s hydrated,” NFL insider Ian Rapoport said on the “Rich Eisen Show.” “And I jokingly said to someone who knows him very well and has known him forever, ‘I think we can retire the pitcher.’

He continued, “This person looked at me like I was crazy and said, ‘Oh no, he still has the pitcher, he’s still in shape, he’s still eating well, he’s still living the “TB12 method” or whatever, and he’s still drinking a lot of water – just in case.’ He’s still doing all the things he would do if he wanted to go back.’

Rapoport dispels 49ers rumors about Brady

In regards to a possible return for the superstar, Rapoport added: ‘I don’t know if he’s going to come back. I know it’s at least possible. And I don’t know where the level of possibility is. But it’s at least possible.”

Brady left the door open for his return when he retired, according to Sports Illustrated. Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians had already stated in response that he did not expect a return until the 2022 season. Aside from the timing, there were rumours about where Brady would go when he came out of retirement.

Recently, rumors surfaced about a move to the San Francisco 49ers. Rapoport also took a stand on this:

“Well, I will say this, I’ve seen all the rumours and reports about Brady wanting to go to San Francisco and I’ve seen Mike Florio pick up on some of that rumour. I haven’t personally confirmed any of that,” Rapoport clarified:

“Maybe my sources aren’t as good (as Florio’s, ed.), but I haven’t heard from anyone that he actually wants to play for San Francisco. “