Tom Brady’s recent Facebook documentary series offered some interesting revelations about the New England Patriots quarterback — even for those who know him best.
Former Patriots wide receiver Troy Brown, Brady’s teammate for eight seasons, watched “Tom Vs Time” and was particularly intrigued by how the six-part series ended: With the 40-year-old QB admitting his family life has become more important while hinting that his passion for the game might not be as strong.
“Just listening to him speak — he said a couple of things that I’ve never heard Tom Brady say before,” Brown said Tuesday during an appearance on WEEI’s “Dale & Keefe” radio show, via WEEI.com.
“One of the things that caught my ear was the fact that he mentioned his family would play more of a role deciding when he retires. I’ve never heard him say that before. All before, it was, ‘I’m going until I’m 45. I’m going until I’m 50.’ ”
In the past, Brady has been gung-ho about playing as long as his body lets him, but the ending of “Tom vs Time” suggested his mindset might have changed. Some have speculated the 18-year veteran might be getting frustrated with the Patriots organization after reports of a rift between he, head coach Bill Belichick and team owner Robert Kraft.
Brown doesn’t see those reported disagreements being severe enough to make Brady retire, though.
“I don’t think that (Belichick’s negativity) will push (Brady) out, because he’s so competitive,” Brown said. “He wants to win. He put up with it for 18 years, it’s probably been difficult. Maybe he lost his cool at some point this year. But I don’t think that will push him out, because I know he loves to play the game of football.”
Still, the real question remains: How long will that love last?