Legend in play

San Francisco: Thank you for Mike Lupica’s column “There has never been anyone like Tom Brady” (Feb. 5). It’s worth remembering that Brady (like Brock Purdy this year) began his career as an afterthought — the 199th pick in the 2000 NFL draft, seemingly destined for journeyman backup status at best. He didn’t defy the laws of physics like Patrick Mahomes, and his favorite receiver, Julian Edelman, never made a Pro Bowl. It wasn’t physical gifts or an exceptionally talented supporting cast that vaulted Brady to greatest-of-alltime status, it was his unmatched competitive drive (aided by great defenses) that led him to reach 10 Super Bowls and win seven, more than any NFL franchise. His decision to return this past year allowed me to take my children, Sammy and Sophie, to see him play (against the 49ers).

Stephen A. Silver Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, you’ve got some explaining to do. Maybe you don’t have to run your decisions by your boss, the mayor, but you’ve got to tell the public why the culture you’re creating renders the highestranking officers in the FDNY so crushed that they seek demotions. Intelligent New Yorkers fully recognize a political operative when they see one. We get that you’re in charge of rooting out deep-seated racism, staffing inequities and scrutiny over hiring practices. That’s nothing new, and nothing you shouldn’t be doing. That you have zero fire experience is also nothing new for a commissioner, so nobody’s faulting you for that. But don’t confuse the issues. You’re working with people who have serious experience in the business of fire operations who have spent long careers protecting the people of this city. And we, the people, have got their backs. Do better.

Maggie Hill