Tom Brady Favored to Become Starting Quarterback for AFC Team

At least one sportsbook believes there's a chance that Tom Brady could take over at quarterback for an AFC team next season.

Over the past week, reports have begun to surface regarding the unique contract structure that is in place for the Las Vegas Raiders' newly acquired starting quarterback, Jimmy Garoppolo.

According to numerous sources, Garoppolo failed his physical after signing with the Raiders. The failed physical stems from a left foot injury that required surgery. As a result, before the two sides came to terms, the Raiders added a clause to his 3-year, $75 million contract that requires him to pass a physical before the 2023 season begins. If he fails the physical at that time, the team would have the option to void the contract in its entirety.

Garoppolo has an extensive injury history, and having already failed his most recent physical, there is at least a chance that he won't be suiting up in silver and black this season after all.

READ MORE: Tom Brady Responds to NFL Return Rumors, Las Vegas Raiders

If that scenario were to take place, the question would immediately become: Who will be the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders this season?

Well, according to at least one sportsbook, the betting favorite would be none other than the Raiders' newest minority owner, and the most accomplished quarterback of all-time, Tom Brady. 

BetOnline has the following odds for Week 1 Raiders QB IF Not Jimmy Garoppolo
Tom Brady 2/1
Brian Hoyer 5/2
Matt Ryan 3/1
Nick Foles 6/1
Aidan O'Connell 7/1
Carson Wentz 7/1
Andy Dalton 10/1

— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) May 28, 2023

The idea of Tom Brady un-retiring (again) in order to take over for the Raiders as a 46-year-old quarterback is hard to believe. 

Sure, he's a minority owner. And there's no question that his presence in the lineup would immediately generate an incredible amount of revenue for the franchise. It would also reunite him with his former coach from New England, Josh McDaniels. I still don't think that's enough to motivate Tom Brady to make a return to the NFL. 

As one of the fiercest, most successful athletes in the history of the world, Tom Brady is motivated almost exclusively by his competitive nature, and the pursuit of victory.

READ MORE: 'Difficult to Maintain' Lofty Expectations for Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield Says PFF

Would playing for the Raiders satisfy either of those two driving forces?

Absolutely not.

Not only is the Raiders' roster a major work in progress, especially on defense, but they also play in what is arguably the toughest division in all of football. Even with Tom Brady leading the charge, the Raiders just don't have the ammunition required to put up a fight in the AFC West. 

Furthermore, Brady has made it abundantly clear that his primary reason for hanging up his cleats is so that he can spend more time with his family. Coming back to play for the Raiders, who play on the opposite side of the country from where his children live, would make his personal life extremely challenging. 

So why would BetOnline be offering odds on Tom Brady taking over for Jimmy Garoppolo as the Raiders' next quarterback? 

More like, why not? 

BetOnline has already been mentioned numerous times in this article. It's free publicity. And if anyone is willing to actually take that bet, it's more than likely going to result in a donation to their sportsbook. 

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