A New Era in New England

posted 3/17/2020

With the entire world in a holding pattern, it would be nice if we all could have a little bit of normalcy.

New England, you’re not helping.

Tom Brady said on social media that he will not be returning to the Patriots, ending an unheralded twenty year run with the team. Whenever the NFL season starts up again, Brady will be wearing a different uniform.

I can’t say that it’s a surprise, but it was still a bit of a shock. Brady and Bill Belichick are the greatest player/coach combination in NFL history, but it wasn’t surprising to hear that their relationship was...let’s just call it a distant one. In New England, the players are cogs in a well oiled machine. And when Belichick thinks a cog needs replacing, he’ll do it. Even one as big as Brady.

​Brady rightfully wanted to be paid his worth and Belichick wanted a change. But as incredible and durable as Brady has been, he can’t play forever. He’s 43 and immobile in a time when teams want their quarterbacks to run and lot a lot. And if Belichick knows if he wants to win, he needs to change with the times.

In New England, the players are cogs in a well oiled machine. And when Belichick thinks a cog needs replacing, he’ll do it. Even one as big as Brady.

The old guard quarterbacks are seeing their time come to an end. Eli Manning already retired. Along with Brady, Philip Rivers is looking for a place to play. This will probably be the final season for Drew Brees in New Orleans. Cam Newton is expected to be traded within the next two weeks. We’ve seen NFL legends finish their careers elsewhere. Joe Montana, John Unitas, Emmitt Smith, and Jerry Rice all did. 
​
The drop from NFL supremacy is often a steep one. Even the greatest quarterback of all time isn’t beyond getting replaced. And often times, it’s done without a second thought or an ounce of nostalgia.

*UPDATED 3/17/2020 4:28PM 
Tom Brady expected to sign with Tampa Bay. I don't even his good looks can make those uniforms less hideous...