NFL Rumors: Patriots think Tom Brady can play 3-5 more years
Tom Brady may be nearing 40, but the Patriots think he can play another handful of years.
At age 39, Tom Brady hasn’t noticeably lost a step with his play. He continues to produce MVP-caliber seasons at a point when NFL players are either retired or beginning a tailspin in play. Peyton Manning did something similar before injuries took its toll on him at age 39, leading to his retirement after Super Bowl 50.
Well, heading into Super Bowl LI against the Atlanta Falcons, Brady doesn’t look to be anywhere close to the position Manning had been in just one year ago. If anything, we’re going to be seeing plenty more of the New England Patriots star over the next few years.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, long-term, the Patriots think Brady can play another 3-5 years and will look to extend him in the offseason. This makes trading Jimmy Garoppolo, the third-year backup, a possibility.
In their long-term planning, #Patriots believe QB Tom Brady will play 3-5 more years, sources say. That's why trading Jimmy G is possible.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 5, 2017
#Patriots will look to extend QB Tom Brady next offseason, source says. Clear indication they believe his proclamation to play into his 40s.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 5, 2017
Brady playing at this level into his mid-40’s is almost unprecedented. Quarterbacks have played into their late 30’s and even crossed 40 before, but few have made a notable impact.
Seven years ago, Brett Favre looked to be able to make it into his 40’s after having a terrific 2009 season with the Minnesota Vikings. However, one year later, he looked like a shell of himself at age 41 by throwing 11 touchdowns and 19 interceptions.
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With Tom Brady’s 28 touchdowns and two interceptions from the 2016 season, it will look like he can play into his mid-40’s, just as the Patriots think he can. A strong performance and win in Super Bowl LI will only further this. Injuries happen and nearly every player, even the greatest of all-time, have seen a decline in play before stepping away. Could this be the case for the future NFL Hall of Famer? Or will he be able to sustain this level of play before hanging up the cleats?