5 retired superstars who could return to the NFL

When NFL players announce their retirement, it usually marks the end of their careers, but not always. The average age of retirement in the NFL is currently around 27. Retired players have many options with what to do with the rest of their lives. One of them is unretiring and returning to the football field.

Prior to the start of an NFL season, there are always rumors about certain superstars coming out of retirement and rejoining a team for one more run at a Super Bowl.

As the 2022 NFL season approaches, it's time to once again speculate over which retired players could potentially make a return.

Here are five players who recently retired, but have left the door open for a potential comeback.

#1 Rob Gronkowski

Tampa Bay Buccaneers TE Rob Gronkowski

Rob Gronkowski retired for the second time in his career during the 2022 NFL offseason. He first retired during the 2019 offseason. He sat out the entire 2019 campaign before returning in 2020 and joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

It's pretty clear that Gronkowski is still capable of playing at a high level as he had a solid 2021-22 season, recording 802 receiving yards and six touchdowns across 12 games. It wouldn't be too surprising if he made another comeback and reunited with Tom Brady once again.

#2 Drew Brees

New Orleans Saints QB Drew Brees

Drew Brees officially announced his retirement following the 2020-21 season, having spent two decades in the league. He put together one of the greatest careers by any quarterback in NFL history. He was the all-time passing yards leader when he retired and won a Super Bowl ring with the New Orleans Saints in 2010.

Brees sat out the entire 2021-22 season, but made headlines when he mentioned the possibility of a return in a post on Twitter. Injuries played a large role in his decision to retire, so if he's fully healthy, returning to the league is a possibility.

#3 Julian Edelman

New England Patriots WR Julian Edelman

Julian Edelman spent 12 years with the New England Patriots, where he won three Super Bowl rings and a Super Bowl MVP award. Injuries became an issue for Edelman, especially late in his career. He missed the entire 2017-18 season and played in just six games during the 2020-21 season before officially announcing his retirement.

Edelman has insisted that he has no plans of making a comeback due to the condition of his knees. But he has also claimed that he's staying in shape. This is just in case there's a possibility of returning. The mixed messages make it unclear what his plans are moving forward.

#4 Terrell Owens

San Francisco 49ers WR Terrell Owens

Terrell Owens is considered to be one of the greatest wide receivers of all time. The claim was validated by his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018. He hasn't been on an NFL team since 2013 and hasn't caught a pass since 2010, but his football career isn't quite over yet.

Owens has claimed for many years that he's still capable of playing in the NFL. He is currently 48 years old and plays in the Fan-Controlled Football League (FCF). It's an extremely long shot, but if he can prove that he's still capable of dominating defences, an NFL team may give him a chance at a comeback.

#5 Philip Rivers

Indianapolis Colts QB Philip Rivers

Philip Rivers demonstrated incredible durability during his 17 years in the NFL. He spent 16 seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers and retired following the 2020-21 season after a year with the Indianapolis Colts. He had a streak of 240 consecutive regular-season starts.

Rivers proved during his final year that he was capable of performing at a decent level, helping the Colts to a playoff spot while completing 68% of his passes with 24 touchdowns. Injuries haven't been much of an issue for him, so he could make a comeback if he chooses to do so.