Coming off an MVP-caliber season, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady is weighing retirement and a decision on his fate is believed to be imminent.
Reports surfaced before Tampa Bay’s playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams that Brady was contemplating ending his NFL career. Teammates and those in the Buccaneers’ organization were bracing for it and the buzz increased following his comments during an interview Monday.
- Tom Brady stats (2021): 5,316 passing yards, 43 passing touchdowns, 102.1 QB rating. 67.5% completion rate
According to CBS Sports’ Jason La Canfora, several sources within Brady’s inner circle believe he’ll reveal his decision in the coming days. While it’s far from a guarantee, many remain convinced that he will formally announce his retirement.
There is nothing left for Brady to prove in his career. The future Hall of Famer is a seven-time Super Bowl champion, posting statistics in his 40s that some legendary quarterbacks never topped across their entire careers.
Even in 2021, Brady played at an elite level. Among the best moments during the 2021 regular season was Brady’s dramatic comeback just minutes after the theatric Antonio Brown exit.
- Tom Brady career stats: 84, 520 passing yards, 624 passing touchdowns, 97.6 QB rating, 64.2% completion rate
The 44-year-old entered the NFL as a sixth-round pick in the 2000 NFL Draft. A five-time Super Bowl MVP and 15-time Pro Bowl selection, the departure of Tom Brady would have a league-altering impact on the 2022 NFL season.
If he does retire, there is at least a chance the Buccaneers can still convince Rob Gronkowski to play next season.