New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft wants Tom Brady to sign a one-day contract with the franchise so the legendary quarterback can retire as a member of the team he represented for two decades.
On Wednesday, Brady announced his retirement from the NFL after 23 seasons. He won seven Super Bowls over an illustrious career that spanned two decades with the New England Patriots - where he won six of his championships - and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
No NFL coach demands more of his players than defensive mastermind Bill Belichick, who took the reins of the Patriots back in 2000. His no-nonsense, business-like approach meshed well with Brady’s unrelenting dedication to his craft, creating the most successful quarterback-head coach tandem as the Patriots dominated the NFL.
The Pats dynasty - fuelled by the trifecta of Brady, Belichick and Kraft - is regarded as one of the greatest in sports history. New England reached the Super Bowl on nine occasions, winning six championships during that period as well as 16 AFC East division titles.
It is common practice for players who made a significant mark on a franchise to sign a one-day deal in order to retire with the team most synonymous with their achievements, while a press conference is often the chance for memories to be relived. On Thursday morning, New England owner Kraft insisted he wanted Brady to sign a one-day contract so the iconic quarterback can retire as a Patriot.
“I’d do it tomorrow,” said Kraft when asked of the possibility by hosts Don Lemon and Poppy Harlow. “Not only do I want it, our fans are clamouring for it and to us, he always has been and always will be a Patriot...We'll do everything we can in our power to bring him back, sign off as a Patriot and find ways to honour him for many years to come.
“He did so much to bring life and good cheer to our community and he's a beloved figure and he's earned the respect and love that people feel for him like no other athlete in our town and we've had some great ones.”
Like so many others around the NFL, Kraft emotionally reacted to Brady’s original retirement a year ago before he sensationally reversed his decision to return to the Buccaneers. However, Brady has insisted this time is ‘for real’ - so the Pats owner has sent a final message to his former quarterback.
“Tommy, I'm always here for you, you are part of our family,” Kraft added. “I just love the guy so much and there isn't anything I wouldn't do for him and I think he can do a lot of good things for America and reach out to a lot of people. Thank you for the time you gave us and everyone here in the New England region loves you and respects you and wants happiness for you in your life.”
Brady led the Patriots after the 2019 season, signing for the Bucs where he was reunited with Rob Gronkowski. The duo starred as Tampa Bay crushed the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV, giving Brady a remarkable seventh championship.
Brady returned to Foxborough during the 2021 regular season, leading the Bucs to a tight win over the Patriots in the closing stages. Belichick, who is considered by many to be the greatest coach in NFL history, released a statement after Brady’s retirement became public, which read: “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. His work ethic and desire to win were both motivational and inspirational to teammates and coaches alike. Tom was a true professional who carried himself with class and integrity throughout his career.
“I thank Tom for the positive impact he had on me and on the Patriots and congratulate him on his amazing career.”
