Denver Broncos address tampering concerns after Drew Brees rumors
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 2:14 PM
Last updated Sep 16, 2026

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton spoke to reporters on September 14 after rumors emerged about the team contacting Drew Brees regarding a possible return. Reports indicated that discussions may have occurred last season when Broncos offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi and offensive assistant Pete Carmichael reached out to Brees ahead of the AFC Championship Game. Payton suggested that Brees had initiated contact, aiming to mitigate potential tampering issues given Brees's status on the New Orleans Saints' reserve-retired list. The league may review the situation, as the Broncos are aware of the scrutiny that could arise from these interactions.
- •Payton commented on Brees rumors on September 14, 2026.
- •Discussions reportedly took place before the AFC Championship Game last season.
- •Brees remains under contract with the New Orleans Saints.
- •The NFL may investigate potential tampering issues.
- •Payton positioned the narrative to suggest Brees initiated contact.
- 2:14 PMYahoo Sports — Denver Broncos Did Damage Control to Avoid Tampering Case Following Drew Brees Return Rumor?
"A new report suggests that Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton was in potential damage-control mode with his comments following […]
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