Drew Brees Said He Can No Longer Throw With His Right Arm
Although he retired in 2021, we can officially bury the idea of Drew Brees ever making an NFL comeback. It was already unlikely as, Brees is currently 44-years-old, and has really enjoyed the retired life with his family. He recently appeared on the ESPN talk show “Greeny” and spoke about some opportunities post-retirement.
“Look, I’ll let you in on a little fact,” he said. “I don’t throw with my right arm anymore. My right arm does not work. So, when I throw in the backyard right now, I throw left-handed.”
The reason for this was the shoulder injury he suffered in his last season with the Chargers in 2005. He fully dislocated his throwing shoulder, tore his labrum and partially tore his rotator cuff. This injury almost ended his career, but as we know, he recovered and had a legendary tenure with the New Orleans Saints.
Brees mentioned that he has found new ways to keep himself entertained, but he has to be conscious of his shoulder movement.
“I can play pickleball because it’s below the waist,” he said. “But anything above my shoulder I have a hard time with.
“If I could, I would absolutely still be playing.”
It’s amazing that Brees was able to play at such a high level for as long as he did. The Saints took a massive chance on him that the Dolphins passed up due to long-term concerns.
Brees mentioned that his doctor, Dr. Andrews, was able to do things in the short term that ultimately prolonged his playing career for as long as possible, saying he owes him “a lot.”
Brees is a rare breed that was able to overcome what would usually be a career-ending injury. It’s amazing that he was able to overcome it for so long and I think it’s good that players open up about injuries after they retire. Interviews like these put some real perspective on just how difficult it is to play this game for a long time.
