Tom Brady has been tipped to snub an emotional return to the New England Patriots next summer in favour of a move to the San Francisco 49ers.
The NFL legend is expected to become a free agent next summer when his contract at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers expires. A second retirement had been expected, but now it seems more likely he'll stay in the league and move teams instead.
A return to New England to reunite with Bill Belichick is currently the subject of intense speculation, with Patriots fans eager for him to have one last hurrah at Gillette Stadium.
But NFL expert Colin Cowherd has other ideas for the seven-time Super Bowl champion. Speaking on his Fox Sports show 'The Herd', he explained how a move to the 49ers could be the most appealing option out there.
Brady was born and raised in California, and a move to the 49ers was tipped back in 2019 when he left the Patriots. And Cowherd believes that due to Brady's current ability and mobility, the 49ers would "appeal" to him.
He said: "From this point forward, Tom needs to rely on others, which feels a little unbecoming to a GOAT. He's moving into the 'go down to Florida when you become a senior' phase. A little easier life. That's what he's becoming. A GOAT to a snowbird.
"He needs to move somewhere where it's a little easier lift. He can still put in the hours, but the escapability, what he had, it's not there anymore. He's no longer an overcomer. Smart players, all these sports, they figure it out. Steph Curry brought KD in so he didn't have to drop 38 a night... Jordan Poole, take your shots, drop 20, I don't wanna do the heavy lifting.
"A lot of athletes want to be the star, but I think Tom gets it. This is a bridge or transition year, where he's lost his fastball, clearly, and doesn't have support. Next year he could look much better, but he's moved out of the overcoming stage."
He added; "I love Tom, but there are stages to all athletes. That's why the 49ers, again, are so appealing for him going forward."
