Patriots head coach Bill Belichick and team CEO Robert Kraft issued statements following Tom Brady’s second retirement announcement on Wednesday. Brady’s former head coach and CEO had high praises for the future Hall of Famer who carried the Patriots to nine Super Bowl appearances.
“I am so proud of Tommy. He has accomplished everything there is to achieve in this game, and so much more. No player in NFL history has done it as well for as long as Tom Brady,” Kraft said in his statement.
“He is the fiercest competitor I have ever known and the ultimate champion. He led the Patriots to two decades of unprecedented dominance. He is truly the greatest of all-time. Words cannot adequately express the gratitude my family, the New England Patriots and our fans have for everything he has done. It’s been a blessing for me to watch him grow, first as a young professional on the field, but most importantly, as a person off it. He is one of the most loving, caring and passionate players I have ever known and I will always consider him a part of our family.”
Brady’s career comes to an end after a disappointing 31-14 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in last month’s NFC wild-card game. Brady and the Buccaneers were held scoreless in the first half of that game as the Cowboys didn’t have much issues sending their opponents home. The 45-year-old ended the matchup completing 33 of 66 passes for 351 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.
After weeks of deliberation, Brady announced his retirement through his social media platforms on Wednesday morning. The 23-year veteran said that this retirement is “for good.”
Belichick credited the seven-time Super Bowl champions’ work ethic and professionalism during his time in the NFL.
“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,” Belichick said.
“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.”
Despite the six Super Bowl wins Brady and Belichick shared in their time in New England, its been reported that the two haven’t had the greatest working relationship. In 2017, the head coach banned Alex Guerrero, Brady’s trainer, from the team plane and sideline. Brady credited Guerrero, who is also the quarterback’s close friend and business partner, for extending his career for so long.
At the time years ago, both Brady and Belichick declined to comment on the matter.
