Tom Brady announced on Wednesday morning he is retiring “for good” from football, ending a 23-year career that saw him win seven Super Bowl rings and set numerous records.
Brady leaves the game after winning six Super Bowl championships with the New England Patriots and one with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He ends his career as the NFL’s leader in career passing yards (89,214) and touchdown passes (649). The three-time league MVP passed for 4,694 yards.
“I know the process was a pretty big deal last time, so when I woke up this morning, I figured I’d just press record and let you guys know first,” an emotional Brady said in a video on Twitter. “I won’t be long-winded. You only get one super emotional retirement essay, and I used mine up last year, so really thank you guys so much to every single one of you for supporting me.”
ESPN reported Brady informed the Buccaneers of the decision around 6 a.m. ET.
The Glazer family, which owns the Buccaneers, released a statement on the news, saying Brady “set an exceptional standard that elevated our entire organization to new heights”.
“Tom’s impact will be felt within our community for many years to come and we will forever be grateful for those unforgettable memories that he provided during these final seasons of his legendary career,” the Glazer family said.
“My family, my friends, my teammates, my competitors — I could go on forever, there’s too many,” Brady said in the video. “Thank you guys for allowing me to live my absolute dream. I wouldn’t change a thing. Love you all.”
Brady is expected to move into the broadcast booth as an analyst for Fox Sports after signing a 10-year, $375 million contract this past summer. The legendary quarterback is expected to replace Greg Olsen on the lead broadcast crew in the 2023 season.
