Patriots owner Kraft: Star QB is one of a kind

Robert Kraft’s response to Tom Brady’s second retirement announcement was short and to the point.

The Patriots owner said there was no one like him, and that’s not about to change.

“I don’t believe in the 100-year-old history of the NFL there’s been a quarterback of Tom’s ilk,” the Patriots owner told ESPN’S Mike Reiss. “I would have trouble ever believing there would be another one.”

Brady spent his first 20

NFL seasons with New England before playing his final three with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 45-year-old won seven Super Bowls, six with the Patriots.

Following three seasons spent in Tampa Bay, adding one more ring to his collection, Brady has decided to retire, he now says, “for good.”

It’s likely the Patriots will honor Brady in some fashion. He’ll be a lock for the Patriots and Pro Football Halls of Fame.

He’ll be eligible for his bust in Canton in 2028. The Patriots Hall of Fame only has a four-year waiting period, so that will come sooner.

In 2021 Kraft did say he hoped the legendary quarterback would “retire a Patriot.”

Meanwhile, on the field there might not have been a better coach-quarterback combination in history than Bill Belichick and Brady.

In the wake of Brady announcing his retirement, Belichick weighed in with a highly complimentary statement.

“Tom Brady was the ultimate winner,” Belichick said via the team’s website. “He entered the NFL with little to no fanfare and leaves as the most successful player in league history.

“His relentless pursuit of excellence drove him on a daily basis. His work ethic and desire to win were both motivational and inspirational to teammates and coaches alike.

“Tom was a true professional who carried himself with class and integrity throughout his career. I thank Tom for the positive impact he had on me and on the Patriots and congratulate him on his amazing career.”