New England Patriots’ quarterback Tom Brady turns 35, wants to play for a long time – NFL News
New England Patriots' quarterback Tom Brady celebrated his 35th birthday after the end of practice session at training camp on Friday.
It has been 12 years since Brady had his first offseason training in the year 2000. Yet after playing 12 seasons, Brady still thinks that he has to compete to get the place on the roster.
Talking to media after Sunday’s practice session, Brady was asked how many more years he thinks he can play. Brady did not give any specifics, but expressed his intentions for playing in many more years. Brady said:
“I want to play a long time. I think the reality is we’re focused on this year and there’s no season other than this season that I’m worried about. We’ve got our work cut out for us — it will be a huge challenge.”
Brady’s idol Joe Montana played till the age of 38, while Brady himself played alongside Vinny Testaverde and Doug Flutie when they were 42.
It is a testament to Brady’s professionalism that he has been able to play for so long and looks to be in his prime right now. He said:
“Everyone is working on something. It’s not like you can just go through the motions out here, or else you don’t improve. I’m competing just like everybody else. I’m competing for my role and my spot and trying to be a good leader and trying to set a good
example as quarterback.”
In case Brady does go out with an injury or retires, Patriots have been preparing a backup for a long time.
Patriots have Brian Hoyer who has played four seasons with them so far. They also have Ryan Mallett.
Mallett did not have a very useful rookie season as he was unable to attend any offseason training camp and organised team activity (OTA).
Brady was drafted by Patriots in the sixth round (199th overall pick) of the 2000 draft. He has been able to win three Super Bowl titles.
He is considered to be the best ever draft pick in the entire history of the NFL. Last season he scored 39 touchdowns along with 12 interceptions while covering 5,235 rushing yards.
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