Tom Brady retires ‘for good’ this time, he says

by Jacob Fuller

Rob Issa, FISM News

Tom Brady has retired again, saying this time it’s for good.

The seven-time Super Bowl champion who holds nearly every statistical passing record in NFL history announced his decision in a video posted on his social media platforms Wednesday morning.

“Good morning guys. I’ll get to the point right away. I’m retiring,” he said in a 50-second video. “For good. I know the process was a pretty big deal last time. So when I woke up this morning, I figured I’d just press record and let you guys know first. I won’t be long-winded. You only get one super-emotional retirement essay, and I used mine up last year.

“I really thank you guys so much, to every single one of you for supporting me. My family, my friends, teammates, my competitors. I could go on forever. There’s too many. Thank you guys for allowing me to live my absolute dream. I wouldn’t change a thing. Love you all.”

Brady’s voice quivered as he finished his video. He won’t be gone too long, though.

Brady already has a $375 million, 10-year deal with Fox Sports to be the lead analyst next season.

He walks away after an unmatched 23-year career where he won six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots and one more with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

“Tom Brady was the ultimate winner,” Patriots coach Bill Belichick said.

He entered the NFL with little to no fanfare and leaves as the most successful player in league history. His relentless pursuit of excellence drove him on a daily basis. His work ethic and desire to win were both motivational and inspirational to teammates and coaches alike. Tom was a true professional who carried himself with class and integrity throughout his career. I thank Tom for the positive impact he had on me and on the Patriots and congratulate him on his amazing career.

Brady finishes as the NFL’s career leader in yards passing (89,214) and touchdowns (649). He is the only player to win more than five Super Bowls and was MVP of the game five times. Brady also holds the record for playoff yards (13,400) and TDs (88).

“Tom’s legacy is unmatched in the history of this game,” Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht said.

All the Super Bowl titles and statistical records speak for themselves, but the impact he had on so many people through the years is what I appreciate the most. His imprint on this organization helped take us to the mountaintop. We will certainly miss him as our quarterback, but I will also miss him as a leader and friend. Our entire organization is indebted to him for what he provided us over the past three years. We won’t ever forget the wins or the accolades and his influence will be felt for years to come.

Brady’s retirement lasted 40 days in 2022. He returned to lead the Buccaneers to their second straight division title, though they finished 8-9. It was the first time Brady had a losing record in his career. The Bucs were dominated by the Dallas Cowboys in the playoffs.

Brady had to deal with off-field struggles during the season. His 13-year marriage to model Gisele Bundchen ended in October. Though he didn’t play up to his own standards, Brady still threw for an NFC-best 4,694 yards passing, threw 25 TDs, and broke his own NFL record for completions with 490.

Brady’s arm strength never slipped. His velocity remained strong. He could play another season at age 46.

But his desire to be close to his three children and spend more time with them played a major factor in his decision to finally end a certain Hall of Fame career.

“Tom’s impact on our franchise these past three years has been immense and we are appreciative of the time we had him here in Tampa Bay,” the Glazer family, owners of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, said in a statement.

He set an exceptional standard that elevated our entire organization to new heights and created some of the most iconic moments in our history. Tom’s impact will be felt within our community for many years to come and we will forever be grateful for these unforgettable memories that he provided during these final seasons of his legendary career. We wish him the best in this next chapter of life and are confident he will find similar success in his future endeavors.

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