Tom Brady will not be on the field this Sunday but his shadow stretches over the NFL’s Week 10matchup between the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Aug 8, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Retired Hall of Fame New England Patriot player Tom Brady talks with Brian Hoyer during the first half of a game against the Washington Commanders at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Aug 8, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Retired Hall of Fame New England Patriot player Tom Brady talks with Brian Hoyer during the first half of a game against the Washington Commanders at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Hecalled the game “has all the makings of the NFL’s game of the year,” citing high stakes and the competitive fire on both sides.
“We got two teams who might feel like they have something to prove,” Brady said. “That usually results in a great football game.” He will watch while calling the Lions-Commanders game but refused to pick a favorite.
The Patriots lead the AFC East at 7-2 while Tampa Bay sits atop the NFC South at 6-2. Both teams rank in the top 10 of Brady’s personal NFL power rankings.
He praised New England’s balance and efficiency under quarterback Drake Maye, calling it “classic New England football” and a stark contrast to recent years.
For Tampa Bay, Baker Mayfield has revitalized the offense, combining poise and leadership that make the Bucs a serious contender. “It’s going to come down to who can handle the moment better,” Brady said.
This game represents a bridge between two eras. Brady forged a dynasty in New England, winning six Super Bowls and three MVP awards before joining Tampa Bay at 43, leading them to a Super Bowl win in his first season.
He became the first quarterback to win titles in both conferences. “Seeing both of these teams competing at a high level makes me proud,” he said. “They both have great leadership, great fanbases, and great futures.”
Brady emphasized the larger significance beyond the scoreboard. “Games like this build belief in the locker room,” he said. “You win a game like this, you start thinking about January.”
The matchup is also a test of resilience and composure as both quarterbacks perform under the spotlight. He singled out Mayfield’s leadership and Maye’s rapid development as key storylines.
Tom Brady’s Impact on Both Teams
Brady’s influence lingers in both cities. In New England, his era shaped a culture of sustained excellence. In Tampa Bay, his brief tenure redefined what a franchise could achieve with a veteran quarterback.
Players on both sides acknowledge the legacy he leaves behind and the standard he set. Even off the field, Brady’s eyes remain on the game, connecting two teams he elevated and giving fans a storyline that transcends a typical Sunday matchup.
This is more than a game. It is a collision of history, leadership, and emerging talent with Brady watching every detail unfold. Fans can expect intensity, strategy, and moments that could define the season for both teams.