Early Life and College Career
Thomas Edward Patrick Brady Jr. was born on August 3, 1977, in San Mateo, California. He grew up idolizing NFL quarterbacks like Joe Montana and showed athletic promise in both football and baseball.
Brady played college football at the University of Michigan, where he had to fight for playing time but eventually led the team to an Orange Bowl victory in the 1999 season. Despite his college success, Brady was not considered a top NFL prospect.
The 2000 NFL Draft: A Slow Start
In the 2000 NFL Draft, Tom Brady was selected in the 6th round, 199th overall by the New England Patriots. His physical attributes were questioned, and he entered the league as an unheralded backup.
However, everything changed during the 2001 season when starting quarterback Drew Bledsoe was injured. Brady took over and led the Patriots to an improbable Super Bowl XXXVI victory, beginning one of the most iconic careers in sports history.
Dynasty with the New England Patriots (2000–2019)
Brady spent 20 seasons with the New England Patriots, forming a historic partnership with head coach Bill Belichick. Together, they built a dynasty, winning six Super Bowls (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX, XLIX, LI, LIII) and appearing in nine.
Brady was known for his clutch performances, including:
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The 28–3 comeback against the Falcons in Super Bowl LI.
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Multiple game-winning drives in playoffs and Super Bowls.
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Consistent excellence across two decades of competition.
He also won three NFL MVP awards (2007, 2010, 2017).
Tampa Bay Buccaneers and 7th Super Bowl (2020–2022)
After leaving the Patriots in 2020, Brady signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In his first season, he led the team to victory in Super Bowl LV, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs and earning his seventh ring—more than any NFL franchise.
He continued to defy age, putting up elite numbers well into his 40s and playing at a high level until his retirement.
Retirement and Legacy
Tom Brady retired from the NFL in 2023 at age 45, ending a career that spanned 23 seasons. His final stats include:
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7 Super Bowl wins
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3 MVP awards
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89,000+ passing yards (regular + postseason)
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649 career touchdown passes
Beyond the numbers, Brady is remembered for his work ethic, competitive fire, and mental toughness. He turned doubters into believers and set a standard that may never be matched.
Off the Field
Brady is also a businessman, launching brands like TB12 Sports and Brady Brand, and has shown interest in media and ownership (part-owner of Las Vegas Raiders). He has three children and was previously married to supermodel Gisele Bündchen.
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