Brace yourselves—Maverick may be returning to the Top Gun academy. According to sources who aren’t named (always a red flag), Tom Cruise is considering a sequel to the action flick that co-starred Tom “Viper” Skerritt, Anthony “Goose” Edwards, Val “Ice Man” Kilmer, and lots of other alpha-males with cryptic call signs like Merlin, Hollywood, Slider, and Jester.

Several articles picked up on the rumors and ran with ‘em. Philly.com breaks down the possible reasons why Mr. Cruise may want to revisit the film that started the “Tom Cruise formula movie” phenomenon. One theory: he wants to show the world he’s still buff. Another: He’s tired of being in his wife’s shadow. And, perhaps most obvious: He’s in need of a hit movie ("Lions for Lambs," anyone?).

The New York Post reveals some details on the rumored plot. Apparently, Cruise will reprise his role as Maverick, who is now an instructor at the Top Gun academy. This time, he’ll have to coach and control a reckless and cocky female pilot (call sign TBD). Like most sequels, the script pretty much writes itself.

According to the Boston Globe, the film’s possibilities are riding with Mr. Cruise. If he agrees to come back, it’ll get made. If not, insiders doubt anyone else would dare to don the leather jacket and aviator glasses. So, will Maverick agree to buzz the tower one more time? We could tell you, but we’d have to kill you.