Tom Brady: the greatest NFL quarterback of all time. 5 MVP awards. 9 Super Bowl appearances. 7 Super Bowl rings.The first word that comes to mind when discussing Brady is ‘Football’. However, his impact on the entire sports world and society as a whole is what really makes him the G.O.A.T, the greatest of all time. 

Brady’s entry to the NFL was faced with many doubts coming out of the University of Michigan. He was drafted in 2000 by the New England Patriots at the 199 pick in the sixth round. He did not have a crazy arm, insane speed and was forced to patiently wait for a starting position. It was only his determination and perseverance that led him to be the legendary quarterback he is today. He broke almost every possible record a quarterback can break, thanks to his ‘never give up’ mentality and always showing up as the best possible version of himself. 

Founded in 2015, the TB12 Foundation was established by the quarterback to empower  young athletes to do what he has done in his athletic career, challenge the odds. He has used his platform to have more of an impact on rising athletes, rather than just impacting the outcome of a game. The foundation has assisted at-risk and underserved athletes to access programs and training to overcome injuries and obstacles. 

Brady has become a role model for people of all ages from all walks of life. Being a leader and working hard for others and not just himself, is what earned him the “G.O.A.T” title. Creating a positive environment, being a passionate leader, trusting his teammates and constantly putting in the hard work even when the odds were against him, proved to be the perfect recipe not only for football, but for success as an influential figure. He said it best himself, “I think you need to earn it everyday,” Brady said in an interview.  

Brady has changed the game of football forever, as many young football fans fail to remember an NFL without him. While football is a unique sport, his impact reaches athletes of every game around the world. Going from an obvious underdog to a Hall of Famer, his success proved to young athletes that if you keep showing up, you can win any game, make any team or even come out on top after a 25 point deficit in a Super Bowl (Super Bowl LI is constantly noted as one of Brady’s best moments in his career). Winning the same amount of Super Bowls in his twenties as he did in his forties, also proves to his fans that age does not define success. 

After announcing his retirement to the game, news outlets and fans wonder if he is still too great to end his career. Will he pull a Michael Jordan? He just might. 

As of now, he is eager to put more of his attention toward other projects and spending more time with his family. As the greatest football player of all time, every football fan can confidently say he did the impossible and shocked the world with every record break. 

The sports world and society is forever changed because of Brady’s impact. Future great quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen and Joe Burrow have big shoes to fill, on and off the field. Thank you Tom for inspiring athletes all over the world and becoming more than just an athlete to so many people.