UPDATE: Tom Brady has just signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for reportedly US$30 million a year.
For the first time in his NFL career, Tom Brady is becoming a free agent. Having announced that he will officially leave the New England Patriots, the quarterback is now looking to the next step – and it comes down to two other options.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport revealed three teams are currently in open negotiation for Brady’s signature:
- the Los Angeles Chargers
- the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- and the Patriots obviously want him back – but given what we now know, it’s safe to say we can strike them off the list.
According to Insider, each team has a “distinct reason” to land the Brady magic.
The Chargers are reportedly in need of a star name to bring in some fans, a name that they can sell, and subsequently fill their 70,000-seat stadium. Given the entire issue of COVID-19, this may become even more crucial (if the entire season isn’t cancelled, that is).
As for Tampa Bay, securing Brady may mean securing the win. At present, the Buccaneers possess “… one of the scariest arsenals of receiving weapons in the league…”, but found themselves held back by quarterback, Jameis Winston, due to his “… persistent turnover issues…”.
Brady’s key gripe with the Patriots this past season was the lack of support with talent of the same calibre around him – which Tampa Bay could actually provide.
Why the Patriots would like to retain Brady is fairly plain and simple, almost requiring no explanation. Brady has become synonymous with New England, proving himself to be the golden goose that only keeps giving. What he and Bill Belichick achieved has amounted to six Super Bowl wins and two all-time great status’. No one in their right might would want to surrender a Brady-tier player.
With a Tom Brady retirement on the imminent horizon – the man is 42-years-old, after all – his coming decision will be crucial to writing the final chapter of a storied legacy. One that may live up to his career (out with a bang, not with a whimper). Having concluded what many consider to be his most lacklustre season in years, he’s clearly not done just yet. And the fans are ready.
