James Harrison Offers Unique Perspective On Tom Brady Retirement Rumors

James Harrison just retired to spend more time with his family. Will Tom Brady do the same?

The logical answer is no. Most expect the New England Patriots quarterback to play in 2018. But a report Wednesday left open the possibility of Brady retiring, fueling speculation about his standing with the team.

Harrison, who announced his retirement Monday, added to that speculation Wednesday night. When asked by TMZ Sports if he’d be surprised if Brady retired, the ex-Patriots linebacker replied simply, “No.”

Harrison briefly was Brady’s teammate after signing with New England last December and is just a few months younger than the 40-year-old quarterback. As such, he explained what may go into Brady’s thought process about his future.

“That’s up to Tom and what decisions he and his family make,” Harrison told TMZ Sports, “as far as what he wants to do, and if he does want to continue to play, what he’s willing to sacrifice and the family is willing to sacrifice.”

Brady has mentioned the pull he feels from his family — the same pull that led Harrison to retire. But the 39-year-old linebacker was quick to point out that when he’s locked in, nobody is more passionate about the game than Brady.

“I was only around him a short time, but I’m not gonna lie, I’ve never seen anybody that prepares as much as he does,” Harrison added. “His mental preparation and studying is very, very, very extreme. It’s unbelievable the amount of classroom work he goes into with studying players, defenses, coordinators, coaches and so on.”