Tom Brady knows what it’s like to wait an uncomfortable amount of time to hear your name called in the NFL draft.
Brady’s unprecedented career had very humble beginnings, as the New England Patriots didn’t draft the legendary quarterback until deep into the sixth round back in 2000. Brady also sat behind a highly paid No. 1 overall pick when he arrived in Foxboro, Mass., but he capitalized on his opportunity when his number was called.
Thus, the future Pro Football Hall of Famer felt inclined to reach out to Shedeur Sanders when the 23-year-old was going through his own draft slide this year.
“I actually texted Shedeur because I know him very well,” Brady said on the latest episode of the “IMPAULSIVE” podcast. “I said, ‘Dude, whatever happens, wherever you go, that’s your first day. Day 2 matters more than the draft.’ I was 199, so who can speak on it better than me? Use it as motivation. You’re going to get your chances — go take advantage of it.”
Unlike Brady, Sanders should have a legitimate opportunity to earn a starting role as a rookie. Deshaun Watson still is dealing with an injury and the rest of the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback depth chart — Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel — doesn’t feature any no-brainer options.
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Sanders certainly will keep Brady’s teachings in mind when he takes the practice fields in Cleveland. The Colorado product already showcased his admiration for the seven-time Super Bowl champion by choosing to wear No. 12 for the Browns.
Featured image via Michael Ciaglo/Imagn Images
