Tom Brady is perhaps the most dominant player to ever exist in any sport. The undisputed G.O.A.T., or greatest of all time, of American football. He holds the record for the most championships for an N.F.L. player. The record for most touchdown passes thrown by a quarterback and the record for most games won by a quarterback. The record for most games played by a quarterback. He has broken hundreds of barriers and set unprecedented accomplishments that may never be surpassed. Brady’s exceptional career continues to raise many questions like, how does a 43-year-old player continue to set such extraordinary records? How does a player manage to bring his former team, the Patriots, to 9 Superbowl appearances in a mere 19 years? And, how does a player who was drafted as the 199th pick in the sixth round of the 2000 N.F.L. draft manage to become one of the greatest football players of all time?
When Brady first entered the N.F.L., he was an immediate role model for the American football community. From about 2005 up until about 2015, quarterbacks on all teams in the N.F.L. attempted to mimic Brady and his playstyle. He had an immediate ripple effect on the pool of the N.F.L. Brady’s skill in the game isn’t the only reason for his wins, accomplishments, and attention. “He wasn’t the greatest athlete, but he was the smartest guy on the field,” said Brady’s former University of Michigan teammate, Ian Gold. Brady’s mentality, leadership, and determination led to his unprecedented records and wins in the span of his 21-year career. His qualities, character, and skill led to his record seven Superbowl wins, including his recent Superbowl win against the Kansas City Chiefs.
As many attributed the recent Superbowl win to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ defense, Brady’s leadership and game mentality are factors that should be noted. It has been said that Brady has spent several hours after every practice trying to build communication, confidence, and chemistry amongst him and the team. Ultimately, the time and effort Brady and the Buccaneers’ have put forward has paid off, as the team ultimately beat the Chiefs in a 31-9 point win.
Musaab Mahmoud
Staff Writer
Graphic: Tess Cundiff