Tom Brady spent 20 years with the New England Patriots, dominating on the field and revealing as little information as possible during interviews. As Brady begins a new football chapter with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the future Hall of Famer opened up more than ever on The Howard Stern Show on Wednesday.
In an in-depth interview, Brady talked about his life growing up and the things that helped make him the player and person he is today. The 42-year-old also revealed when he first realized that his time in New England was coming to an end.
It’s surprising to hear that Brady expected to leave the only organization he’s ever known as early as before the 2019 season. At the time, many expected it was a foregone conclusion that he would re-sign with the Patriots and stay with the team for the remainder of his career. It also explains why this past season, with one of the worst supporting casts around him, likely caused even more frustration during a disappointing season in New England.
While Bill Belichick ran the team’s negotiations with Brady, it seemed unlikely that the pair would reunite as the offseason unfolded. Despite reports indicating the relationship between the legendary coach and quarterback was weakening, Brady credited Belichick for helping him achieve historic success.
When the time finally came this offseason for Brady to officially part ways with the Patriots, he admitted that the moment was incredibly emotional.
Brady offered up a side of him that the general public usually doesn’t get to see. While emotions might still be high in New England for an organization and fan base missing its star, this interview showed how much Brady valued his time with the Patriots. As he now prepares for the 2020 season with a new beginning in Tampa Bay, perhaps we’ll see him open up even more in the future.