When the Raiders selected Fernando Mendoza at No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, the fanbase was electrified. Optimism reached new heights at the prospect of a seven-time Super Bowl champion guiding the rookie toward professional success.

While Tom Brady is arguably the greatest quarterback in NFL history, general manager John Spytek has clarified the chain of command. Spytek detailed that he will primarily let head coach Klint Kubiak and the coaching staff guide Mendoza’s day-to-day development.

“I don’t think it’s going to be hard,” Spytek said. “We both welcome Tom’s insight and his input. But at the same time, I would say Tom has empowered us to run the day-to-day of the Raiders the way that we see fit. And obviously with the right vision and process in place, we’re going to be a very process-driven organization right now. And I think that wouldn’t surprise anybody with the way that Tom has operated throughout his career.”

If things go wrong, Tom Brady could always step in

Klint Kubiak is in his first year as head coach following a brilliant stint with the Seattle Seahawks, where he won Super Bowl LX. He now inherits a generational prospect in Fernando Mendoza, and the expectations for the Indiana star are already sky-high.

According to Spytek, Brady—who personally welcomed Mendoza after his selection—will allow Kubiak to develop the signal-caller, respecting the boundaries of the coaching staff. Nevertheless, there is a clear strategic reason why the Raiders brought Brady into the ownership group.

If the transition proves difficult, the Raiders will undoubtedly rely on Brady’s unprecedented expertise to assist both Kubiak and Mendoza. Though he is not a coach, his high-level advice could be the catalyst the club needs to finally secure the franchise quarterback fans have craved for decades.

The Raiders have another experienced QB to help Mendoza

Earlier this offseason, the Raiders signed Kirk Cousins. While he may not boast the trophy case of Tom Brady, his extensive veteran experience will be invaluable to Mendoza’s growth.

The Raiders are prepared for a competitive summer between Mendoza and Cousins. However, given his significant college experience and perceived NFL-readiness, the rookie appears to have the inside track to start in Week 1.

“Thank you to all that has helped me through the years along my football career. It has allowed me to grow and experience life in ways I can’t put into words,” was part of the heartfelt message in Smith’s official Instagram statement.

The offensive tackle entered the world’s biggest league after being selected in the second round of the 2015 Draft with the 34th overall pick, precisely by the Bucs. His performance wearing the colors of the Penn State Nittany Lions impressed everyone, and he was able to translate it to the NFL.

His success is not only defined by his on-field achievements, but also by his character as a person, as reflected by some of his former teammates. “Blessings brotha honored to share the field with you,” Jaylen Watson said. Creed Humphrey also added: “Congrats on an amazing career brother!”

The first ring alongside Tom Brady

During the 2020 NFL season, Donovan Smith played a pivotal role as the starting left tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, famously protecting Tom Brady’s blindside during their run to a victory in Super Bowl LV. That season, Smith started 15 regular-season games and was a cornerstone of an offensive line that allowed only 22 sacks all year, the second-fewest in the league.

His performance was particularly dominant during the postseason, where he did not allow a single sack across four playoff games, including the 31–9 blowout of the Kansas City Chiefs. Throughout the 2020 campaign, Smith logged over 1,000 offensive snaps, proving his durability and consistency as he secured his first championship ring alongside the legendary quarterback.

The second was alongside Patrick Mahomes

In the 2023 season, Smith joined the Kansas City Chiefs on a one-year deal and immediately took over as the starting left tackle, protecting Patrick Mahomes during their championship run to Super Bowl LVIII. The OT started 12 regular-season games, logging 749 offensive snaps and providing veteran stability to a line that ultimately helped the Chiefs secure a 25–22 overtime victory against the 49ers.

Statistically, Smith earned a 60.3 pass-blocking grade from PFF, allowing only two sacks and 42 total pressures throughout the campaign. His ability to anchor the blindside was a key factor in the Chiefs’ postseason success, making him one of the few players in NFL history to win Super Bowls as a starting left tackle for two different legendary quarterbacks.

Winning alongside Brady and Mahomes is a privilege few have

Few elite playmakers have managed the rare feat of winning Super Bowl rings alongside both Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes, proving to be invaluable assets to the league’s most recent dynasties. Wide receiver Justin Watson secured a title with Brady in Super Bowl LV before earning two more with Mahomes in Super Bowls LVII and LVIII, while legendary running back LeSean McCoy achieved a spectacular back-to-back run by winning with the Chiefs in Super Bowl LIV followed immediately by a victory with the Buccaneers.

Additionally, veteran quarterback Blaine Gabbert provided championship-caliber depth as a backup for both icons, earning rings in Super Bowl LV and Super Bowl LVIII respectively.

Tom Brady, through his X account, made it clear that this is only the beginning of a very demanding path. “Congratulations to all the rookies who are joining the NFL this weekend. I hope you can appreciate this special moment… you’ve earned it through hard work, discipline, and determination. You’ve made your family proud, along with everyone else on your journey that has supported you.

But this is just the beginning. When you wake up tomorrow morning, just know that your career will be defined by what happens going forward. You’ll need to take everything you do to the next level in order to compete with the world’s best. Welcome to Las Vegas Fernando Mendoza. Time to get to work.”

The link between Mendoza and Brady

The relationship between old school and the greatest of all time with the new generation is more alive than ever after Fernando Mendoza revealed that he would have Brady as a mentor if he were selected by the Raiders.

During an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, Mendoza shared details about his initial connection with Brady and what the legendary quarterback and minority owner of the team told him.

“He gave me the message that he’s going to push me, and he’s not going to be all lovey dovey, and that, if the Raiders draft me, he’s going to be a mentor and wants to pour into whatever QB the Raiders have.”

Having that type of mentorship creates excitement that we could be witnessing the rise of the next big NFL star, one who aims to make history in the league and not disappoint Tom Brady.

During an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, Mendoza shared insight into his early connection with Brady and what the legendary quarterback and minority owner of the team told him about a potential future in Las Vegas.

“He gave me the message that he’s going to push me, and he’s not going to be all lovey-dovey, and that, if the Raiders draft me, he’s going to be a mentor and wants to pour into whatever QB the Raiders have.”

Tom Brady’s message for Fernando Mendoza

Tom Brady’s message reflects a broader shift within the Las Vegas Raiders. After a disappointing stretch under Pete Carroll and quarterback Geno Smith, Brady had already signaled a more active role in football decisions.

Now, with Klint Kubiak leading a new coaching era, the Raiders appear ready to build around a young quarterback with elite upside. In the QB room, it will be a very interesting scenario with a veteran like Kirk Cousins also mentoring Mendoza and leading the transition.

Will Raiders pick QB Fernando Mendoza in 2026 NFL Draft?

The Raiders are ready to choose Fernando Mendoza. The context makes the moment even more significant. Las Vegas endured a controversial offseason, highlighted by the failed trade attempt involving Maxx Crosby and the Baltimore Ravens, raising questions about the team’s long-term direction.

Landing Mendoza could change that narrative entirely. Fresh off a national championship run with Indiana, he represents not only stability at quarterback but also a potential cornerstone for years to come.

If his development aligns with expectations, and with Brady’s mentorship in place, the Raiders could quickly re-enter contention in a loaded AFC West alongside the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and Denver Broncos. Over time, Mendoza may even position the franchise to pursue the ultimate goal: returning to Super Bowl contention.

In an exclusive interview with Bolavip, the former Argentine kicker spoke about the current state of the Bucs, delving into what lies ahead for the NFL, and also the valuation of his position, a legacy that his children intend to continue.

In addition, he made it clear who he thinks the GOAT in football is. Gramatica, charismatic and with great analytical ability, emphasized that the league has everything it takes to conquer the entire world and did not miss the opportunity to outline which teams could reach the 2027 Super Bowl.

Bucs’ missed opportunity in 2025 NFL season

Bolavip: You’re someone very closely linked to Tampa, to the Buccaneers. You’re a historic figure for the franchise. Let me ask you: how did you see last season’s ending? It was a very tight division, it almost slipped away. Do you think there was a specific reason why they couldn’t push a bit further?

Martin Gramatica: It was disappointing, honestly, because we were one win away from making the playoffs with five or six games left. If we had won one of those, we would’ve made it. Unfortunately, we couldn’t. We did beat Carolina in the last game, thinking we were in. Atlanta didn’t help us because it beat the Saints, and Carolina ended up going to the playoffs.

We started really well too, I think we were 5–1, there was talk of Baker Mayfield as MVP, everything was perfect, and then the team slowly fell apart. We also had a lot of key injuries—every team has injuries, but when you lose your top two receivers, first Mike Evans, then Chris Godwin. (Emeka) Egbuka started well but then the longer season hit him a bit, the NFL season wore on him a little in the second half of the season.

So I don’t know if I can point to one single factor, there were many factors that didn’t help us. And obviously, being that close and not winning one game out of six, that really hurt.

Bolavip: Recently, Lavonte David spoke about all the injuries Mayfield had to go through last season, and that maybe if he had been healthier, the outcome would have been different. Do you agree with him?

Martin Gramatica: Yes, for sure, because Baker started out, as I said, on his way to MVP. And then his performance dropped a bit, but he took a lot of hits. He got hit a lot. And I think little by little, it started to wear on him, and then he had an injury to his left arm. And even though you don’t throw with your left arm, you use it for balance.

He also had, I think, a hit to his knee as well and his ankle. So, those are all things that one might think ‘Oh, he just throws with his arm.’ But he uses his whole body to throw, and besides his best weapon is when everything breaks down, and he takes off running and gets those first downs.

During that stretch when he was half injured, half banged up, he wasn’t running as much because he knew he couldn’t take a hit. I’m not saying it was fear of getting hit, because this guy lowers his helmet and runs into a wall if he has to, to get a first down.

The thing is, he was protecting himself because one bad hit would have taken him out of the game. He even missed half a game, I think it was Detroit, I don’t remember which one it was, where he left at halftime due to injury. So yeah, that didn’t help him at all. And then also having his superstars get injured. Because the timing with the other receivers also didn’t help him.

Bucs’ future without Mike Evans and 2026 NFL Draft expectations

Bolavip: And now Evans’ absence will be felt—a guy who made history and broke records…

Martin Gramatica: I think it’s going to be felt, especially on the emotional side, because of his leadership and also because he’s an amazing player on the field, obviously, and that safety valve when there was a problem Mayfield would say ‘Ok, I’ll just throw it to Mike Evans and he’ll catch it.’ Especially in the red zone.

And the pressure that Chris Godwin and Egbuka will feel now. Because they’ll be the leaders of that receiver group and they’ll need to have a really great season. Especially Chris Godwin, who’s a veteran, who’s had many injuries, who had a spectacular year when he signed his contract and then injury after injury he hasn’t been able to stay consistent.

So I think this year is key for him. Not only stat-wise in terms of statistics, but also in staying healthy and playing every game. Because that’s also key. He hasn’t been able to finish a season healthy in the last few years.

Bolavip: Now the closest event is the NFL Draft, which keeps everyone on edge. Do you have any idea about what the Bucs might do? What do you think they need?

Martin Gramatica: Last year showed us that they can do anything. They pick who they believe is the best player available at that moment. Last year there was a lot of talk that we needed defensive players. That we needed an edge rusher, someone who could put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and they went with (Emeka) Egbuka, a receiver, who honestly did well, right? And besides, I think they were already looking ahead. With Mike Evans and Chris Godwin getting older, they needed a young guy.

But I think this year is very similar, I think they need a defensive player who comes in with intensity and character. It could be a linebacker because Lavonte David just retired. An edge rusher too—we haven’t had outside pass rush, right? Vita Vea is a wall in the middle, but on the edges we haven’t had someone who can really put pressure on quarterbacks.

But with the Bucs you never know—Jason Licht often surprises. And it’s worked pretty well for him, right? Look at Bucky Irving, an amazing player who was picked in the third round. We focus on the first round, but it’s usually the second, third, or fourth round guys who sometimes surprise everyone, because nobody expected anything, and then they’re starters.

NFL continues to expand

Bolavip: Another big topic is the NFL’s expansion into different countries and cities around the world: Australia, Rio… Do you think the league can really establish itself in other cultures?

Martin Gramatica: Yes, it already has. From a financial standpoint, it’s good for the NFL, good for those cities. The fans in Europe, I went to the game when the Bucs played in London, and the stadium is always packed. What you do see is jerseys of all colors, because they’re fans of all different teams, and there’s a little group of Bucs fans at that time with Carolina.

But the fanbase, yes, there are a lot and I see it also in South America, right? Also Argentina itself has a league, an equipped Flag Football League that competes. So what has made the sport so much more visible and made people start liking it more is social media. It gives access to the sport, because before we had no way to watch it.

When I came at age 9 I didn’t know football existed in the US. Back home we played soccer, a little tennis and that was it. I knew about rugby, right? And a little bit basketball. Now people do know they exist and there are even kids who like it. There are fans in Argentina who prefer football over soccer. That seems crazy to me, but they grew up watching it and liking it.

In Europe they follow it a lot too. Well, when we played a preseason game in Japan, I think it was in 2004 after the Super Bowl, it was a preseason game and it was insane. People would come to practice sessions, the stadium was packed. They knew everything, they even had little cards with photos. For them it was like their Super Bowl, because the games only came once a year. So I think that’s why the NFL knows that it has a strong presence worldwide and that’s why they’re expanding to other countries.

There won’t be another Tom Brady

Bolavip: And regarding your career—you won a Super Bowl, spent time with New England, Indianapolis, New Orleans… and therefore worked with Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Peyton Manning. What was it like?

Martin Gramatica: Well, I’ll always have a soft spot for Brad Johnson because we won the Super Bowl together. The truth is they are players who were stars, they still are stars. Not just in the NFL, even after retiring they’re still superstars because they’re Hall of Famers. And they’re all different, right? Different kind of leaders too.

The truth is Peyton Manning, I remember during practices, the same with Tom Brady, they both wanted to be perfect in practice. With Drew Brees I didn’t connect as much. He was somewhat distant from teammates. I don’t know, Brees’ personality was different, I never got to really know him.

But Brady and Manning, it was impressive what they demanded from their teammates and what they demanded from themselves. And that’s why you see where their teams ended up, right?

Peyton Manning was unlucky to play in the same era as Tom Brady. If not, he would have won three or four Super Bowls. It’s like Cristiano Ronaldo. He is an amazing player but he happened to play in Lionel Messi’s era. So nobody talks about Ronaldo, everyone talks about Messi, because he is so much better. So well, that’s what happened to Manning with Brady. But they’re both superstars.

Bolavip: Let’s say over the last 10 years, do you see in that position someone who reached or can reach Brady’s level?

Martin Gramatica: Brady’s level of winning 7 Super Bowls, I don’t think anyone gets there. Because at one point, I thought Patrick Mahomes could, if Kansas City had beaten Tampa, he would have gotten a bit closer.

But now seven against three Super Bowls, I don’t see Patrick Mahomes catching Brady, not a chance. And no, I don’t think there is, and the way the league is, there’s no player you can point to and say he’s going to be the Tom Brady of the future, who’s going to win four or five Super Bowls or play 20 years either, right?

I don’t think there’s a name like that, no. I really couldn’t tell you because what Tom Brady did is something special, not only for what he did by winning the Super Bowls. Reaching 10 Super Bowls and winning seven, that was impressive. What a career. That is very hard to match, very hard to match.

The value of kickers in the NFL

Bolavip: And in your position, which often defines games, do you think kickers are undervalued?

Martin Gramatica: Before, yes. Now they’re more valued. Today they kick 65 or 70-yard field goals. Contracts are also better. But it always depends on the team. They know that, you can have the best kicker in the league, but if you don’t have the best quarterback you’re not going to win. As a kicker you get it and you know that.

The kicker has the best job Monday to Saturday and the hardest on Sunday: few chances, all or nothing. It’s similar to a goalkeeper in soccer—you can save everything but people remember the one mistake. The pressure is different from any other position because you have very few chances.

Bolavip: Your longest kick was 55 yards. Could a kicker from your era play in today’s NFL?

Martin Gramatica: Yes, the position hasn’t changed much. The setup is the same: distance, angle, snap. Training changed, but the role is similar.

Bolavip: Thinking about the future, your sons Nico Gramatica and Gaston Gramatica…

Martin Gramatica: Well, the only thing what I always say is that we are extremely proud of how they work and how focused they are, of their dedication and the sacrifice they’re making to get there.

You never know if they’ll make it or not because it’s also very hard to make it, you need luck. You need to find a team that let’s you kick, so there are many variables, which is why some very talented kids don’t make it, while others maybe less talented do make it because they have better luck.

The only thing I always say about the kids is that they work themselves to the bone, they are super focused, super dedicated to making it. What I always tell them, whether they make it or not, they shouldn’t regret not having done enough to get there. And if they give everything, and it doesn’t work out, at least they gave it everything, so they can’t blame themselves.

But in that regard, we are incredibly proud. Because Nico, well, being the example as the older brother. And then Gaston too, because it’s not easy to get a scholarship here. It’s very hard, and especially coming out of High School. Because now with the portal, they pick players with College experience.

Nico had the chance to go to USF, and two years later, Gaston goes as well. He was also offered a scholarship by Texas. In football, Texas is very strong, North Carolina also offered him a scholarship out of High School. So you can see that they’ve noticed the effort and his work too.

A hypothetic Super Bowl LXI matchup

Bolavip: And finally, who would you like to see in the next Super Bowl?

Martin Gramatica: You’re putting me in a tough spot, I haven’t even thought about next year! But well, obviously from the NFC, I want the Bucs to be there. I liked what Vrabel did with New England, how he changed the face of the team.

But I would like to see Buffalo make it because I love Josh Allen. And then well, I’m a big fan of (John) Harbaugh, who now went to New York, I don’t want them to make it because it’s on our side of the Conference, but he was the first one to interview me on the NFL, when he was in Philadelphia.

I was just doing some cleaning and I still have his card from when he was in Philadelphia. He was Special Teams Coach back then. That’s why I’ve always liked him, he was a great guy. And gave me a lot of advice knowing that he didn’t need a kicker. He said ‘I want to interview you so that you can get those nerves out, because I don’t need a kicker right now, but i want to help you.’

So a guy that I truly always appreciated that, what he did for me. But yes, so I’d like to see Buffalo make it from the AFC, and obviously Tampa from the NFC side, right?

WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH MARTIN GRAMATICA ON BOLAVIP US:

The Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick and are expected to select top Indiana prospect Fernando Mendoza. Cousins’ arrival ensures he will have a mentor in the quarterback room and that, if the rookie is not ready, the former Falcons player can start in Week 1 while trying to make the team a contender.

Klint Kubiak is the new head coach in Las Vegas for the 2026 season and already worked three years with Cousins when he was QB coach and offensive coordinator of the Minnesota Vikings. The top quarterback left on the market is no longer available.

Who will be Raiders starting QB in 2026?

Kirk Cousins would have the edge to be the Raiders’ starting quarterback in 2026, considering Fernando Mendoza may not be ready for the NFL immediately after his college football career.

Who will the Raiders draft with the No.1 overall pick?

Despite the arrival of Kirk Cousins, the Raiders are still expected to draft Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. This way, the franchise would have everything in place for a rebuilding process, with a veteran serving as a transition bridge and Mendoza as the future.

Additionally, another important event looming for a comeback could be the Olympics. This was the legend’s response when he was asked what he envisions his role to be as LA 2028 gets closer and whether it will be on the field.

“No, clearly it’s not. LA in 2028 will be a lot of guys like you saw out there on the field to make a big commitment to trying to be their best, go out there and showcase their skill set in front of a global audience. So, if there’s any role I can play, I would love to. Obviously I’ll be supporting. I’ll probably be at some games. I’d love to see the American team win it all.”

Is Tom Brady coming out of retirement?

Tom Brady is not coming out of retirement to play in the NFL in 2026, as he will not receive permission from the league to do so since he is also a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Although the veteran asked about that option, it is not going to happen.

Will Tom Brady return in the 2028 LA Olympics?

Tom Brady ruled himself out as a possible player for Team USA’s roster at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. After what happened at the 2026 Fanatics Flag Football Classic, the former QB publicly said he will not compete for a spot.

“I actually have inquired, and they don’t like that idea very much. We explored a lot of different things, and I’m very happily retired,” he revealed in a recent interview with Alex Sherman.

Considered by many as one of the greatest of all time, Brady today feels comfortable in his executive role. That said, judging by his appearances on the field in Flag Football, he could easily suit up again.

Players who came out of retirement

The NFL has seen several legendary icons who couldn’t resist the urge to return to the field for one final run. Tom Brady provided the most famous recent example when he ended a 40-day retirement in 2022 to play another season with the Buccaneers.

Similarly, Rob Gronkowski ended his brief hiatus in 2020 to reunite with Brady and win another Super Bowl ring in Tampa Bay. Even Marshawn “Beast Mode” Lynch famously came out of retirement twice to suit up for both the Raiders and the Seahawks. Ultimately, these iconic comebacks prove that the competitive fire is incredibly difficult to extinguish.

Brady’s new role

In 2026, Tom Brady serves as a high-profile minority owner and a key strategic advisor for the Las Vegas Raiders. Although he officially holds a 5% stake in the franchise, he acts as a de facto president of football operations, working closely with General Manager John Spytek to lead the team’s massive rebuild.

Brady has been heavily involved in major decisions, including the hiring of head coach Klint Kubiak and evaluating top prospects like Fernando Mendoza for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 Draft. His influence extends to the team’s culture, where he emphasizes discipline and long-term success to turn the organization around after a difficult 2025 season.

TB12’s accolades

Tom Brady has won a record-breaking seven Super Bowl rings throughout his legendary career. He earned his first six titles with the New England Patriots (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX, XLIX, LI, LIII) and secured his final championship with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (LV). With seven rings, Brady has more Super Bowl victories than any single NFL franchise in history.

Following the tournament, debate intensified about whether NFL superstars should be included, especially with Team USA showcasing elite chemistry and experience in the format. The conversation naturally shifted to the possibility of stars like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow or Saquon Barkley joining the race for a spot.

Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl champion, made it clear that reputation alone should not guarantee selection. “There’s going to be a selection process and the best people will play. Team sports are a meritocracy. Whoever is the best and gives the team the best opportunity ultimately to win, that’s who should be out there. We’re a long way from that happening, it’s a couple years, but I think it’s good for the NFL players to see what this game is all about.”

Is Tom Brady coming out of retirement?

Despite speculation after his appearance in the 2026 Flag Football Classic, Tom Brady confirmed he is not planning to come out of retirement. The former quarterback hinted a possible return to NFL, but clarified that his participation was more about promoting the sport than launching a comeback. That effectively rules out the possibility of him trying to secure a roster spot for the 2028 Olympics.

Brady explained that the focus should remain on building the best possible team rather than creating a storyline around his return. While his experience would be valuable, he acknowledged that younger players and active professionals are better suited for the pace of international flag football.

Even without Brady on the field, the debate surrounding NFL participation is expected to grow. If stars like Mahomes, Burrow or Barkley enter the selection pool, Team USA could feature one of the most talented rosters ever assembled in flag football. For Brady, however, the priority is clear: the best players, regardless of background, should earn the opportunity to chase Olympic gold.

The list includes many high-profile names: Rob Gronkowski, Antonio Brown, Ali Marpet, and Ryan Jensen have stepped away from the game. On the defensive side of Bruce Arians’ team, there are also a few cases.

Ndamukong Suh, William Gholston, and Steve McLendon are perhaps the most impactful names on this list of former players. Arians, leading from the sideline, is also no longer coaching in the league.

There are also two particular cases: Jason Pierre-Paul signed in December 2025 to join the team’s practice squad after being without a team for a long time, but he didn’t retire. Leonard Fournette, another notable player, hasn’t played in a while but also hasn’t officially announced his retirement.

Historic day for the Bucs

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made history by becoming the first team to ever play—and win—a Super Bowl in their own home stadium, dominating the Kansas City Chiefs with a final score of 31-9. Tom Brady was named the game’s MVP after throwing three touchdown passes, securing his record-breaking seventh championship ring.

A unique fact from the evening is that due to COVID-19 restrictions, the stadium was filled with a mix of 25,000 live fans and 30,000 cardboard cutouts to create a full-crowd atmosphere, making it the least-attended yet most visually unique Super Bowl in NFL history.

Heroes still in Tampa Bay

Although most of the championship roster has moved on, a few key survivors of Super Bowl LV are still anchoring the team in 2026. Defensive tackle Vita Vea continues to dominate the line of scrimmage, while Antoine Winfield Jr. remains the heart of the secondary.

On the offensive side, cornerstone tackle Tristan Wirfs and veteran wideout Chris Godwin are the last standing pillars of that historic 2020 starting unit still wearing the red and pewter.

David’s farewell

After a successful 14-year career playing at the elite level, Lavonte David brought his NFL stint to an end. His words reflect this turning point in his life.

“It’s time,” David started. “I’ve been playing football since I was 6 years old. Thirty years straight of football. I never missed a year. A lot of time, man. When it’s time, when you know, you know.

“I always wanted to be a guy who wanted to retire on my own terms. Right now is the perfect opportunity for that. I give glory to God for me to be able to play football for this long.”

After the event, Brady said, “I think maybe about different ways to marry a 7-on-7 version of the game versus a flag version where it resembles a little bit more football, might make it more exciting to watch every single day, and get more people involved in it, kind of globally around the world.”

Then, he proposed an even more NFL-oriented idea. “I think, you know, even on the sideline, just thinking about maybe an NFC team next year versus an AFC team, and then kind of sprinkle in some of the great, you know, American flag players. I think that could really help.”

Brady still delivered some great moments

The first play of Tom Brady’s flag football outing was a highlight for the ages. Brady got rushed, he evaded the defender, and threw an absolute dime to Stefon Diggs for a touchdown. At 48 years old, he still had it.

Brady then followed that with an incredible pass to longtime friend Rob Gronkowski for the 2-point conversion. The ever-competitor he is, Brady spoke between losses and said, “My heart is really hurting right now.” Brady also had his own version of the Philly Special in the bag.

Flag football is an Olympic sport now

Flag football is an Olympic sport set to debut at the 2028 LA Games. This prompted many NFL players to get interested in participating. However, Team USA was very dominant during this event, making it clear that they won’t lose their spots just because.