Tom Brady. The name evokes strong emotions from NFL fans, from admiration and awe to frustration and outright hatred. He terrorized the league for 22 seasons, winning seven Super Bowls, three MVP awards, and countless accolades. But before he became the GOAT, he was an unheralded prospect, a likable underdog with something to prove.
To understand how he became a legend, and perhaps the most hated player in NFL history, we need to go back to the beginning.
Early Life and College Years
Born in 1977, Tom Brady grew up a San Francisco 49ers fan, idolizing Joe Montana. He attended Junipero Serra High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball. His football career began inauspiciously; he was a backup quarterback on a freshman team that went 0-8 without scoring a single touchdown.
Despite early struggles, Brady eventually earned the starting quarterback job. He received offers from several colleges and committed to the University of Michigan in 1995.
Brady's college career was marked by perseverance. He spent his first three years as a backup, buried on the depth chart behind Brian Griese. But he never gave up, and in his junior year, he finally earned the starting position.
He led the Wolverines to a 10-3 record and a Citrus Bowl victory. However, his senior year brought a new challenge: a quarterback competition with Drew Henson. Brady shared playing time with Henson, showcasing his resilience and leadership even when faced with adversity.
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The 199th Pick
Despite his college success, Brady wasn't a highly touted NFL prospect. He was criticized for his lack of physical tools and unimpressive performance at the NFL Combine. In the 2000 NFL Draft, six other quarterbacks were selected before the New England Patriots finally took a chance on Brady with the 199th overall pick.
He made the Patriots' roster as the fourth-string quarterback. It was a familiar position for Brady, who had spent much of his college career as a backup. But he had a knack for exceeding expectations.
The Rise of a Dynasty
In 2001, fate intervened. Starting quarterback Drew Bledsoe suffered a serious injury in Week 2, and Brady stepped in. He never looked back.
Brady led the Patriots to an 11-3 record and a playoff berth. In an improbable postseason run, they defeated the Oakland Raiders (in the infamous "Tuck Rule" game), the Pittsburgh Steelers, and finally, the heavily favored St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI.
Brady, the unheralded sixth-round pick, was named Super Bowl MVP. He had led the Patriots to their first Super Bowl title, and a dynasty was born.
Super Bowl Success and Growing Resentment
The Patriots, led by Brady and coach Bill Belichick, became the dominant force in the NFL. They won Super Bowls XXXVIII and XXXIX in 2003 and 2004, establishing a dynasty and solidifying Brady's status as a star.
However, with success came increased scrutiny and, for many, a growing dislike of Brady and the Patriots. Their dominance, combined with a perception of arrogance, began to turn some fans against them.
Spygate and the Perfect Season
In 2007, the Patriots were embroiled in a controversy known as "Spygate." They were accused of illegally videotaping opponents' signals. The NFL fined Belichick and the Patriots and stripped them of a first-round draft pick.
Despite the scandal, the Patriots went on to have a perfect 16-0 regular season. Brady won the NFL MVP award, throwing a then-record 50 touchdown passes. However, their quest for a perfect season ended with a loss to the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII.
Deflategate and Continued Dominance
The Patriots continued to be a force in the AFC, reaching the Super Bowl again in 2011 and 2014. However, they lost both times to the Giants.
In 2014, another controversy emerged: "Deflategate." The Patriots were accused of deflating footballs in the AFC Championship game. Brady was suspended for four games, but the suspension was eventually overturned.
Despite the controversy, Brady and the Patriots won Super Bowl XLIX against the Seattle Seahawks, with Brady earning his fourth Super Bowl MVP award.
In 2016, after serving his Deflategate suspension, Brady led the Patriots to an improbable comeback victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI. He won his fifth Super Bowl ring and fourth Super Bowl MVP award.
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A New Chapter in Tampa Bay
After 20 seasons with the Patriots, Brady signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020. He led the Buccaneers to a Super Bowl LV victory in his first season with the team, earning his seventh Super Bowl ring and fifth Super Bowl MVP award.
Brady continued to defy Father Time, leading the Buccaneers to the playoffs in 2021 and 2022. He retired after the 2022 season, leaving behind a legacy unmatched in NFL history.
The GOAT and His Legacy
Tom Brady is widely considered the greatest quarterback of all time. His seven Super Bowl titles, five Super Bowl MVP awards, and numerous records are a testament to his talent, dedication, and competitive drive.
However, his legacy is also intertwined with controversy. Spygate, Deflategate, and a perceived arrogance contributed to his status as a polarizing figure in the NFL.
Whether you love him or hate him, there's no denying Tom Brady's impact on the game. He redefined what it means to be a quarterback and set a standard of excellence that may never be surpassed. His career was a testament to his unwavering pursuit of greatness, and his story will be debated and discussed for generations to come.
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