Tom Brady’s abrupt retirement was one that fans didn’t expect to see this soon in the offseason, but most people in the league are not surprised that the greatest of all time is calling it quits.
In a video that he posted, announcing his retirement, Brady said:
“Good morning, guys. I’ll get to the point right away. I’m retiring for good.”
On Thursday, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft joined
‘CNN This Morning’ to discuss the career of his former franchise cornerstone. Kraft piqued the interest of football fans when he announced that he would begin working to bring Brady back on a one-day contract so that he can retire with the Patriots, the team where his career began.
“Not only do I want it, our fans are clamoring for it. And to us, he always has been, and always will be a Patriot. “I don’t like to make a commitment for him, but we will do everything in our power to bring him back, have him sign off as a Patriot, and find ways to honor him for many years to come. Because he did so much to bring life and good cheer to our community. And he’s a beloved figure, and he’s earned the respect and love that people feel for him like no other athlete in our town. And we’ve had some great ones.”
Brady, who played a major role in turning the Patriots into a dynasty over the last two decades, left to play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the final three seasons of his career. While, at the time, this decision could not have sat well with Kraft, it seems that he is done fretting over the past. Kraft offered a closing message to Brady, with advice on his next phase of life and a thank you for the years they worked together.
“Tommy, I’m always here for you. You are part of our family. I just love the guy so much and there isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for him and I think he can do a lot of good things for America and reach out to a lot of people. Thank you for the time you gave us and everyone here in the New England region loves you and respects you and wants happiness for you in your life.”
These statements from Kraft make it seem like this retirement will be the last. Last offseason, Brady briefly retired before giving it one last run with the Buccaneers this season. It seems now, after this message from his former owner, that this year’s retirement is the real deal. In his retirement message, Brady alluded to this sage, saying:
“I know the process was a pretty big deal last time so when I woke up this morning, I figured I just press record. let you guys know first so won’t be long-winded.
“If you only get one super emotional retirement essay and I used mine last year so really thank you guys so much to every single one of you for supporting me, my family, my friends, my 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.”
