Tom Brady, Saints Reportedly Had 'Serious' Mutual Interest If Drew Brees Retired

The New Orleans Saints reportedly had a good chance to sign Tom Brady if Drew Brees had retired after last season. 

Per CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora, Brady was watching the Saints' situation with Brees "closely," and both sides would have had "serious" mutual interest if Brees walked away. 

After the Minnesota Vikings eliminated the Saints from the postseason, Brees took time to decide if he wanted to return for a 20th season. 

Brees told Amie Just of the Times-Picayune in January he would wait until after the Super Bowl to make an announcement: "I'm really waiting until football is totally done. ... I kind of have a process in mind. And I'll give it a month or so."

The Saints eventually agreed to a two-year, $50 million contract with Brees on March 17, the same day Brady announced on Instagram he wouldn't return to the New England Patriots. 

Sean Payton's offensive scheme would have made Brady a natural fit in New Orleans. The Saints tend to rely on short, quick-rhythm throws and play-action passes that create space for receivers, which has helped Brees complete at least 70 percent of his attempts in each of the past four seasons. 

Brees' return opened the door for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to land Brady. He signed a fully guaranteed two-year, $50 million deal with the Bucs. 

Brady will be able to show the Saints what they could have had in Week 1. The Buccaneers will travel to New Orleans for a showdown with their NFC South rival on Sept. 13.