Tom Brady could seal a sensational return to the New England Patriots next summer when he leaves the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to a new report.
Brady inked a one-year contract earlier in the year when he reversed his retirement, signing for $15million (£12.4m) fully guaranteed. While many believe it will be his final season before heading into the commentary booth with Fox Sports, it's possible he'll choose to play on.
Should he decide to play on, the Bucs would surely present an offer to keep him in Florida for his 24th season in the NFL, but a more sentimental option could be on the table for Brady. According to The Athletic, the Patriots cannot be ruled out as a possible landing spot for the 45-year-old next year.
Brady initially left the Patriots after his relationship with head coach Bill Belichick became strained, according to numerous reports. The two titans of the sport had become accustomed to winning together, but Brady had reportedly complained to team-mates about the head coach's strict way of doing things.
However, they have reportedly mended that relationship somewhat. Both have been quick to praise the other in the media this season, Brady lauded Belichick after the head coach became the winningest head coach in NFL history, and Belichick returned the favour when Brady threw for 100,000 yards.
And according to the Athletic, the pair sat down together for 23 minutes in the Tampa Bay dressing room at Gillette Stadium after Brady's emotional return to Foxborough.
The Patriots current quarterback, Mac Jones, has failed to impress this season and fans have called for him to be replaced by backup Bailey Zappe on numerous occasions.
However, he is under contract at Gillette Stadium until 2025, so the Patriots wouldn't run the risk of him walking if they were to bring back the seven-time Super Bowl champion.
Instead, it is claimed the team could let the young quarterback learn from Brady before evolving into his natural successor.
However, in order for Brady to consider returning, the Patriots could be forced into changing offensive coordinators, the report suggests. Current offensive coordinator Matt Patricia has struggled this season, and has faced some heavy criticism for his play calling at times.
Brady has remained relatively coy on his plans going forward, but did suggest earlier in the season that he doesn't have retirement in his sights.
He said: "I love the sport and I love the teammates and I wanna go do a great job for this team like I always have. So, no retirement in my future."
