Tom Brady is leaving the Patriots.
On Tuesday, Tom Brady revealed his plans to leave the New England Patriots. In a series of posts, the legendary NFL quarterback ended his 20-year run with the NFL team.
Tom Brady did not reveal where he will sign for the 2020 season. He did say he was leaving. He officially hits the NFL’s market Wednesday and could sign a deal as early as Wednesday, when players and clubs can negotiate deals.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Brady has not made a decision where he will play, and he is exploring other options.
“Although my football journey will take place elsewhere, I appreciate everything that we have achieved and am grateful for our incredible TEAM accomplishments,” he wrote.
Tom Brady won six Super Bowl rings, and 41 playoff starts since 2001. The 42-year-old athlete revealed his plans to play until he was 45. But, he and the Patriots could not reach an agreement on a contract extension last offseason; this allowed for Brady to explore options as a free agent, and after a frustrating 2019 season, he told Westwood One radio he hinted the possibility of leaving the team.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft told NBC sports he hoped Brady would play in New England or retire. According to ESPN’s Mike Reiss about Brady’s departure, he said, “Tommy initiated contact last night and came over. We had a positive, respectful discussion. It’s not the way I want it to end, but I want him to do what is in his best personal interest. After 20 years with us, he has earned that right. I love him like a son.”
Shortly after Tom Brady’s Instagram post, the Patriots released statements from Kraft and Belichick. Belichick said, “Tom and I will always have a great relationship built on love, admiration, respect, and appreciation. Tom’s success as a player and his character as a person are exceptional.”
Belichick called it a “privilege to coach Tom Brady for 20 years.”
Kraft said, “While sad today, the overwhelming feeling I have is appreciation for his countless contributions to our team and community.”
Tom Brady will arguably go down in history as one of the best football players to play the game. From ESPN:
- 3 NFL Most Valuable Player awardsÂ
- 15 Super Bowl records.
- 4 Super Bowl MVP awards.
- Tom Brady has a record of 13 conference title-game appearances.
- Tom Brady has a record of nine conference championships.
- Tom Brady has a record 17 division championships (Peyton Manning is second with 12).
- He was leading the Patriots to at least 12 regular-season wins 13 times, the most all-time.
- He is the first 42-year-old quarterback in history to start every game in a regular season.