By Spencer Paterick ’21 Assistant Editor
Why Tom Brady should not leave the New England Patriots
After 20 seasons, over 200 wins, six Super Bowls, three MVP awards and countless memories with one team, Tom Brady may never play another game in a New England uniform. Brady, who is generally regarded as the greatest quarterback of all time, will likely test the free agency market in the coming weeks.
Inevitably, his career will come to an end, thus closing the door on one of the most legendary and dominating dynasties across all sports. His retirement is closer than ever, and yet is it possible that he might leave the only NFL team he has ever played for. Tom Brady in a uniform other than a Patriots jersey is something that should not happen.
With that being said, I believe it to be in Brady’s best interest to remain with the Patriots. Why ruin a good thing that has been a powerhouse for the past two decades? He should stay in New England. After all, Patriots fans have supported Brady through incredible highs and even some disappointing lows. In my opinion, he would be doing the right thing by staying with those who have stayed with him. Changing teams would tarnish the nearly immortal status that he holds in the eyes of those in the New England territory.
We have seen how fanbases have reacted when players from other sports leave teams that they have spent their entire careers with. It tends to be messy with trach talk and jersey burning; While it is safe to say that some NFL fans would love to see a Brady jersey catch fire, he does not deserve to be disrespected like that, regardless of any past incidences related to football.
Brady is someone who has dedicated his entire life to playing football. His level of dedication to his prolonging his career and ensuring that he maintains a high level of competition is something that is rarely seen in any area of life. By leaving New England, he risks losing the respect of his supporters for the past twenty years.
Tom, while no one knows how this will end, we can only hope that you remain in New England. You went from draft pick 199 to the most successful quarterback of all time. You defied the experts and the odds, and you will go down as one of, if not, the greatest football players of all time. Please do not take one of the most magical and inspiring stories and taint it by leaving behind your faithful fans and organization.
Finish your illustrious career in the place where it all started, New England.
Stay, please stay.