For Brady as he leaves, tributes flow unabated
His talent, leadership, team ethic are praised
Reaction from social media and elsewhere poured in after Tom Brady announced his retirement on Wednesday for the second time.
Brady won seven Super Bowls and set numerous passing records in an unprecedented 23-year NFL career. He made his announcement in a short social media post. The 45-year-old Brady goes out after leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the NFC South title. He finished his final season with an 8-10 record.
Brady and the Bucs were routed in the wild-card round on their own field. Brady helped Tampa Bay win a Super Bowl title in 2020 and consecutive NFC South championships over his last two seasons.
“For all the rings. For all the touchdowns. For all the memories. Thank you for everything, @TomBrady (heart emoji)” — the NFL on Twitter.
“Tom’s impact on our franchise these past three years has been immense and we are appreciative of the time we had him here in Tampa Bay. He set an exceptional standard that elevated our entire organization to new heights ... We wish him the best in this next chapter of life and are confident he will find similar success in his future endeavors.” — the Glazer family, owners of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
“Thanks for pushing me everyday this season mentally and physically to get back on the field. I’m glad I was able to take the field with you one last time! Enjoy retirement, don’t dog me too much in the booth. Love ya man! @ TomBrady” — Tampa Bay center Ryan Jensen.
“Congratulations again Tom on a amazing career! You have been a great ambassador for the game of football, and the greatest champion it has seen. All the best in the next life challenges you decide to pursue! Your gold jacket is waiting for you.” — Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon.
“Say it isn’t so!!” — Four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves, 47.
“I got to witness greatness daily for years and I’m thankful for that (goat emoji) @TomBrady.” — Cornerback Logan Ryan, who played with Brady both in New England and Tampa Bay.
“Tom Brady was the ultimate winner. 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 . ... I thank Tom for the positive impact he had on me and on the Patriots and congratulate him on his amazing career.” — Patriots coach Bill Belichick.
“I am so proud of Tommy. He has accomplished everything there is to achieve in this game, and so much more. No player in NFL history has done it as well for as long as Tom Brady. He is the fiercest competitor I have ever known and the ultimate champion. He led the Patriots to two decades of unprecedented dominance. He is truly the greatest of all-time. Words cannot adequately express the gratitude my family, the New England Patriots and our fans have for everything he has done . ... — Patriots owner Robert Kraft.
“I have always had the utmost respect for Tom Brady as a football player, as a winner and as a person. It wasn’t until he joined us three years ago that I was able to truly appreciate him as a teammate . ... I greatly appreciate the leadership he provided.” — Tampa Bay coach Todd Bowles.