Aaron Rodgers Overlooked as Lavonte David Picks Steelers for Tom Brady’s Unretirement

Tampa Bay great Lavonte David set the football world buzzing during a recent appearance on NFL on CBS, declaring that Tom Brady could still walk into a starting quarterback job today—then singled out the Pittsburgh Steelers as his preferred landing spot, seemingly dismissing current Steelers passer Aaron Rodgers in the process.

David, who retired after a decorated career with the Buccaneers, was asked point-blank whether Brady could still start in the modern league. His reply was immediate and emphatic: “Yes.” When the follow-up question posed hypothetical destinations, Rodgers’ Steelers were the first team mentioned. David again did not hesitate: “Yes. Absolutely.”

The linebacker’s blunt endorsement comes on the heels of Brady’s dazzling cameo at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, where the 47-year-old avoided a flag pull and delivered a 20-plus-yard touchdown strike to Stefon Diggs. The sequence reignited public speculation that the seven-time Super Bowl champion could still compete at the highest level.

Yet David showed more caution when the Indianapolis Colts were floated as another possible fit, citing the organization’s commitment to Daniel Jones. “They really like Daniel Jones,” he said, “and I feel like Daniel Jones had a strong start to the season before he got hurt. But, if Tom comes in, so long, Daniel Jones.”

Despite the verbal vote of confidence, the notion of Brady returning remains purely hypothetical. A lucrative FOX Sports broadcast agreement and a minority ownership stake with the Las Vegas Raiders create layers of contractual hurdles, while the natural toll of age adds another barrier. Still, David’s candid admission that he would “rather face any quarterback playing today” than line up across from Brady underscores the lingering respect—and fear—Brady commands.

“I just don’t want to play against Tom,” David concluded, after also brushing aside Atlanta’s Michael Penix Jr. and Miami’s Tua Tagovailoa as comparably daunting matchups.

For Rodgers, the episode serves as an uncomfortable reminder that even in retirement, Brady’s shadow looms large over the league’s quarterback conversation.