Photo Credit: Jeffrey Beall, via WikiMedia Commons

NFL legendary quarterback Tom Brady has officially retired, once again. He retired last season as well before announcing he would come back, but he seems to be for real this time in an emotional video.

Brady, widely considered the GOAT (greatest of all time), had a huge impact in the NFL, and will likely continue to in new ways. He’s reportedly set to be Fox Sports’ No. 1 game analyst for at least the next 10 years.

Brady had, truly, one of the most iconic careers in the league. The New England Patriots took a chance on him as a sixth-round draft pick in 2000, and it was the best thing they could’ve done. Nobody expected him to create as much of a dynasty as he did.

In 2001, when given the chance to shine, it became evident that he’d be one of the biggest assets in the NFL.

Tom Brady unexpectedly became a hot commodity

Brady’s reign was truly unpredictable. He worked hard to get noticed by college recruiters, but the multi-sport athlete seemed destined for MLB as that’s where he was first drafted in 1995. He ultimately chose football over baseball.

His college football journey was pretty rough as he struggled to get playing time. Through talking with sports psychologists and coaches, and even transferring schools, he finally got his chance to start.

He was most heavily looked at for his work ethic rather than skill, but once he got the opportunity to start for the Patriots, the narrative quickly changed.

Over his lengthy 23-season career, he won New England six Super Bowl rings, brought the team to the playoffs nearly every year and, in 2020, helped the Tampa Bay Buccaneers win their first Super Bowl since 2002.

He ends his career as the NFL’s all-time passing yards (89,214) and touchdown passes (649) leader. He’s also been league MVP three times and has the third-most passing yards (4,694), per the Buccaneers official website.

Through all wins, losses and even deflategate, Brady helped shape this era of the NFL. For that, many remain forever grateful.