January football is where careers are measured differently. The postseason doesn’t reward promise or hype, only teams and players, that keep winning long enough to return year after year.



Some names become fixtures once the playoffs arrive, their seasons routinely stretching beyond Week 18. Whether driven by dynasties or elite quarterbacks, the extended runs reveal who truly lived in the most demanding months.



Playoff appearances offer a different way to understand greatness in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>. Beyond rings or single-game heroics, they reflect persistence, timing and the ability to remain relevant as teams, systems and eras change across decades.



<h2>Tom Brady | 48 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_tom-brady-2_63295433.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548221"></figure><figcaption>Tom Brady (Source: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a>’s postseason resume is a statistical outlier that may never be replicated. Over 23 seasons, he appeared in 48 playoff games, effectively playing three additional regular seasons purely in high-stakes, single-elimination football. His journey began as an injury replacement in 2001 and concluded with a career that saw him start in 10 Super Bowls. 



This volume of play allowed him to set nearly every significant passing record in the playoffs, including 13,400 passing yards and 88 touchdowns. For over two decades, the road to the Super Bowl almost exclusively went through a team led by Brady.



<h2>Adam Vinatieri | 32 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Adam-Vinatieri_abd26f18.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548232"></figure><figcaption>Adam Vinatieri (Source: Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Consistency is the hallmark of Adam Vinatieri’s career, a kicker whose 32 playoff appearances were split between two of the most successful AFC eras: the early New England Patriots dynasty and the Peyton Manning-led Indianapolis Colts. Vinatieri was not merely a passenger on these teams; he was often the deciding factor. 



He participated in five Super Bowls and won four, famously converting game-winning kicks in the final seconds of two of them. His ability to maintain a high conversion rate in freezing conditions and high-pressure moments made him the most trusted specialist in postseason history.



<h2>Stephen Gostkowski | 29 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Stephen-Gostkowski_e051adf3.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548233"></figure><figcaption>Stephen Gostkowski (Source: Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Stephen Gostkowski spent 14 seasons as the primary kicker for the New England Patriots, a tenure that aligned with the most dominant stretch in NFL history. His 29 playoff games are a byproduct of a team that reached the AFC Championship game almost annually. 



Beyond just being present, he was a prolific scorer, tallying 205 points in the postseason. His role was vital in the Patriots’ ability to secure three championships during his stay, providing a reliable floor for an offense that relied on tactical precision and field position.



<h2>Jerry Rice | 29 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Jerry-Rice-4_7908258f.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548234"></figure><figcaption>Jerry Rice (Source: Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jerry-rice">Jerry Rice</a>’s inclusion on this list is perhaps the most impressive, as he is the only non-quarterback or kicker to reach this level of postseason longevity. Playing 29 games at the most physically demanding position for a receiver requires a legendary commitment to conditioning. 



Primarily known for his years with the San Francisco 49ers, he also made a significant playoff run later in his career with the Oakland Raiders. He utilized these 29 appearances to set records that remain untouched, including over 2,200 receiving yards and 22 touchdowns in playoff competition.



<h2>Peyton Manning | 27 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_peyton-manning_ad9743fd.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548235"></figure><figcaption>Peyton Manning (Source: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/peyton-manning">Peyton Manning</a>’s 27 playoff appearances represent two distinct chapters of excellence. Known for his meticulous preparation and control at the line of scrimmage, he led his teams to the playoffs in 15 of his 17 active seasons. 



He is one of the few quarterbacks to reach the Super Bowl with four different head coaches and remains the first to win a title as the starting quarterback for two different franchises. His postseason career was defined by his ability to elevate different rosters, finishing his tenure with over 7,300 passing yards on the playoff stage.



<h2>D.D. Lewis | 27 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_D.D.-Lewis_f2bb3cc5.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548237"></figure><figcaption>D.D. Lewis (Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



A cornerstone of the legendary “Doomsday Defense,” D.D. Lewis was a fixture in the Dallas Cowboys’ lineup throughout the 1970s. His 27 playoff appearances remained an NFL record for many years and still stand as the highest total in Cowboys history. He was instrumental in Dallas reaching five Super Bowls, winning two of them. 



His versatility as a linebacker allowed him to excel in Tom Landry’s complex defensive schemes, notably recording two interceptions in the 1975 NFC Championship game. He retired as one of the few players to compete across three different decades, spanning from the late 60s to the early 80s.



<h2>Bill Romanowski | 26 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Bill-Romanowski_fa483e6b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548238"></figure><figcaption>Bill Romanowski (Source: Andy Lyons)</figcaption></figure>



Bill Romanowski’s 26-game postseason career is a testament to both his durability and his presence on winning rosters. Over 16 seasons, he never missed a single regular-season game, a streak that extended into deep playoff runs with the San Francisco 49ers and the Denver Broncos. 



He won back-to-back Super Bowls with both franchises, making him one of the few players in history to secure four rings with two different teams. Known for his intense and often controversial playing style, he provided a veteran physical presence in the middle of the defense for every postseason contender he joined.



<h2>Larry Cole | 26 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Larry-Cole_cc5f8200.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548251"></figure><figcaption>Larry Cole (Source: NFL Past Players)</figcaption></figure>



Larry Cole spent his entire 13-year career with the Dallas Cowboys, serving as a vital component of the defensive line during the franchise’s most successful era. Like his teammate D.D. Lewis, he appeared in 26 playoff games and five Super Bowls. 



He was a highly adaptable defender, capable of playing both end and tackle, which allowed him to remain productive as the Cowboys’ roster evolved around him. He is famously remembered for his habit of scoring against rivals; all four of his career touchdowns (three on interceptions and one on a fumble recovery) came against the Washington Redskins.



<h2>Travis Kelce | 25 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Travis-Kelce-1-3_96ca2b4d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548220"></figure><figcaption>Travis Kelce (Source: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/travis-kelce">Travis Kelce</a> has utilized his 25 playoff appearances to rewrite the record books for pass-catchers. As the primary target in the Kansas City Chiefs’ modern dynasty, he has surpassed Jerry Rice for the most postseason receptions in NFL history. His connection with Patrick Mahomes has resulted in 19 playoff touchdowns, placing him second all-time behind Rice. 



His ability to find openings in postseason defenses has led to seven consecutive seasons with deep playoff runs, including four Super Bowl appearances and three titles, cementing his status as the most productive tight end in the history of the tournament.



<h2>James Winchester | 25 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_James-Winchester_1961e0a5.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548239"></figure><figcaption>James Winchester (Source: Christian Petersen/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



While long snappers rarely command headlines, James Winchester’s 25 playoff games highlight his essential role in the Kansas City Chiefs’ sustained success. Since joining the team in 2015, he has been the starting long snapper for every game of the Mahomes era, ensuring the stability of the special teams unit during three Super Bowl championship runs. 



His career is a rare example of specialist longevity; by never missing a snap in high-pressure situations, he has quietly climbed the all-time list of playoff appearances, tying teammates for the most postseason games played in franchise history.



<h2>Matthew Slater | 25 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Matthew-Slater_d7735ef8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548240"></figure><figcaption>Matthew Slater (Source: Billie Weiss/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Matthew Slater represents a unique chapter in NFL history: a pure special teams player who achieved legendary status without ever being a regular on offense. Serving as the special teams captain for the New England Patriots for 16 seasons, he appeared in 25 postseason games, acting as the emotional and tactical heartbeat of the unit during three championship runs (XLIX, LI, LIII). 



His elite speed as a “gunner” and his ability to pin opponents deep were critical to Bill Belichick’s field-position strategy. A 10-time Pro Bowler as a specialist, his playoff longevity is a testament to the value of excelling in the game’s “third phase.”



<h2>Charlie Waters | 25 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Charlie-Waters_3717cf4e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548253"></figure><figcaption>Charlie Waters (Source: NFL Past Players)</figcaption></figure>



Charlie Waters was a defining figure of the Dallas Cowboys’ “Doomsday Defense” throughout the 1970s. His 25 playoff appearances are highlighted by a remarkable knack for turnovers; he still holds the NFL record for the most career postseason interceptions with 9, including a historic three-interception performance in a single game. 



He competed in five Super Bowls, securing victories in VI and XII. His instinctive play in the secondary and his ability to diagnose complex offenses made him a permanent fixture in the postseason for over a decade, during which the Cowboys rarely missed a deep January run.



<h2>Devin McCourty | 24 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Devin-McCourty_32589b08.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548241"></figure><figcaption>Devin McCourty (Source: Mike Stobe/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Devin McCourty’s 24 postseason games, all of them as a starter, underscore his role as the cerebral anchor of the Patriots’ second dynasty. He is one of the few players in league history to earn Pro Bowl honors at both cornerback and safety, a versatility that allowed New England’s defense to reinvent itself year after year. 



A three-time Super Bowl champion, he served as a team captain for 12 consecutive seasons. By the time he retired, he had logged more defensive snaps in the playoffs than almost any other player in the modern era, providing a consistent veteran presence in a secondary that faced the league’s most prolific passers.



<h2>Vince Wilfork | 24 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_Vince-Wilfork_d06cdbb3.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548242"></figure><figcaption>Vince Wilfork (Source: Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Vince Wilfork was the immovable force at the center of the defensive line for 24 postseason contests, primarily with the Patriots before finishing his career with the Houston Texans. Weighing over 325 pounds, his impact went beyond traditional statistics; he was a master at absorbing double-teams and collapsing the pocket from the inside. 



A two-time Super Bowl winner, his agility was often surprising for his size, evidenced by his crucial interception in the 2011 AFC Championship game. His presence ensured that his teams could control the line of scrimmage, a prerequisite for any defensive success in cold-weather playoff football.



<h2>David Akers | 24 Games</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251219_BUS_548177_David-Akers_3bb4feb7.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-548243"></figure><figcaption>David Akers (Source: Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



David Akers concludes this veteran group with 24 appearances, establishing himself as one of the most reliable scoring threats in postseason history. The bulk of his legacy was built with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he once set an NFL record by converting 19 consecutive field goals in the playoffs. 



He finished his career with 39 successful postseason field goals, including a productive late-career stint with the San Francisco 49ers that led to an appearance in Super Bowl XLVII. His ability to maintain accuracy in the swirling winds of Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field made him an indispensable asset during an era of sustained NFC dominance.



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"><table><tbody><tr><td>Player</td><td>Games played</td></tr><tr><td>Tom Brady</td><td>48</td></tr><tr><td>Adam Vinatieri</td><td>32</td></tr><tr><td>Stephen Gostkowski</td><td>29</td></tr><tr><td>Jerry Rice</td><td>29</td></tr><tr><td>Peyton Manning</td><td>27</td></tr><tr><td>D.D. Lewis</td><td>27</td></tr><tr><td>Bill Romanowski</td><td>26</td></tr><tr><td>Larry Cole</td><td>26</td></tr><tr><td>Travis Kelce</td><td>25</td></tr><tr><td>James Winchester</td><td>25</td></tr><tr><td>Matthew Slater</td><td>25</td></tr><tr><td>Charlie Waters</td><td>25</td></tr><tr><td>Devin McCourty</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Vince Wilfork</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>David Akers</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Brett Favre</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Ed White</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Gene Upshaw</td><td>24</td></tr><tr><td>Patrick Chung</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Mason Crosby</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Ben Roethlisberger</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Jesse Sapolu</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Joe Montana</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Dave Dalby</td><td>23</td></tr><tr><td>Robert Newhouse</td><td>23</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption>(Source: Statmuse)</figcaption></figure>

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miniaturas

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a> revealed that an NFL team called him to come back and play after his second retirement at the end of the 2022 season. Although the offer was very appealing, the seven-time <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> champion had already made his final decision.



“Yes. When I retired the second time, there was a team that reached out, but I’m not going to tell you who. I’m gonna leave you guys guessing on that. But it was actually a little bit intriguing, but, at that time, I was pretty certain that I was done.”



After losing in the Wild Card round to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-cowboys">Dallas Cowboys</a>, Brady took a few weeks to reflect on what would happen with his future. On February 1, 2023, the legend officially announced that he would not be returning to play.



<h2>Is Tom Brady retired now?</h2>



Yes. Tom Brady is retired and now works as a commentator for Fox. After three years away from playing, the big question is whether the former quarterback of the New England Patriots and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would consider an epic comeback at 48, after seeing what Philip Rivers did with the Colts.


 

 


<h2>Is Tom Brady coming out of retirement?</h2>



No. Tom Brady is not coming out of retirement and has not received any recent offers from NFL teams to return. The future Hall of Famer clarified that the call he received was after his second retirement.


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<h2>What team called Tom Brady after retirement?</h2>



The San Francisco 49ers could have been the team that called Tom Brady, as their head coach, Kyle Shanahan, admitted he was interested in bringing him to the team. At that time, there was total uncertainty about Brock Purdy, who was recovering from a knee injury.



Another possibility could have been the Minnesota Vikings, who that season lost Kirk Cousins to an Achilles injury. Head coach Kevin O’Connell might have considered that Brady could help them make a playoff run.

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One of the most tense moments in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> last weekend occurred at Arrowhead Stadium, where Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffered a severe injury near the end of the game, which will keep him sidelined for an extended period. Tom Brady, former player and multiple-time champion, commented on the situation.



After a successful surgical procedure, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes">Mahomes</a> now faces an extended recovery period. The former Patriots player, widely regarded as the NFL’s GOAT, offered key advice to help him navigate this process.



“The only thing you can do is focus on what’s ahead of you and not look back and just say, ‘OK, this is part of what my career is going to be.’ And a lot of people have gone through it and a lot of people have overcome it,” Brady told host Jim Gray on the Let’s Go! SiriusXM podcast. 



“You’ve just got to put as much diligence into the rehab process and I always feel like the faster you rehab, the faster you can get back to practicing the sport that you know you love.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251216_BUS_546591_patrick-mahomes-tom-brady_68ad4d0a.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Patrick Mahomes and Tom Brady" class="wp-image-546619"></figure><figcaption>Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots talks with Patrick Mahomes.</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Brady</a> also added: “I think sometimes people will pace themselves. Instead of training mode, they’re in rehab mode. I think you gotta get through rehab mode as fast as possible and then you get back to training mode. But that requires an all-out commitment and it’s the same commitment that the great professional athletes make to be great at their profession. When you go through the rehab process, you need that same level of focus and determination.”



<h2>What happened to Mahomes?</h2>


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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kansas-city-chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a>‘ loss to the Los Angeles Chargers was overshadowed by a devastating injury to quarterback Patrick Mahomes. With less than two minutes left in the game, Mahomes was tackled while scrambling, resulting in a non-contact injury to his left knee. 



An MRI later confirmed that the star quarterback had suffered a torn ACL (and LCL), prematurely ending his season and immediately shifting the Chiefs’ focus to his long road to recovery.

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Patrick Mahomes gets crucial advice from Tom Brady after season-ending injury - Bolavip US

Making <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> history is a tough ask. All-time greats have stepped into the gridiron and do incredible stuff, but rarely do we see something that has never been done before or something that will be very hard to replicate. Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes, among others, have given us countless amazing performances, but no one has been able to do what Trevor Lawrence did in Week 15 of the 2025 NFL season. 



Per Hard Rock Bet, nobody in NFL history had 300+ passing yards, 5+ touchdown passes, 50+ rushing yards, and 1+ rushing touchdown until <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/trevor-lawrence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trevor Lawrence</a> did it against the Jets. Hence, he is making history in one of the most competitive sports leagues there is.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a> won seven touchdowns, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/patrick-mahomes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patrick Mahomes</a> went to seven-straight conference championship games, but Lawrence might have just delivered the best individual performance of any quarterback ever.



<h2>Lawrence is finally living up to the hype</h2>



Lawrence is the third-most hyped up prospect ever. When he was about to get drafted, his hype and comparisons were non other than Hall of Famers Peyton Manning and John Elway. Five years later, and Lawrence has fallen quite short of those expectations. However, the last month has been arguably his best football and this performance might put the league on notice.



The Jaguars are now 10-4 and atop the AFC South, which turned out to be one of the best divisions in football this year. The team has won in spite of Lawrence. Still, the last few games have demonstrated that Lawrence is maturing into a clutch, calmed quarterback. Now, he seems capable of managing the game to his team’s strengths.



<h2>Trevor Lawrence will aim to stay hot for the playoffs</h2>


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While Lawrence just made history, he also has the third-largest NFL Playoffs comeback in history. Back in his sophomore season, the Jaguars were losing 27-0 to the Chargers. Lawrence ended up having a massive second half and the Jaguars won 31-30.



Lawrence will always be heavily scrutinized because of how good of a prospect he was. He is trying to live up to huge expectations. Now, he is playing great and will try to keep that momentum once the playoffs roll around.

Trevor Lawrence makes NFL history with something Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes and others were never able to do

Trevor Lawrence makes NFL history with something Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes and others were never able to do - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a> is undoubtedly the greatest player in NFL history after winning the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> seven times in his legendary career. Six with the New England Patriots and one more with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.



Now, after Philip Rivers’ incredible comeback with the Indianapolis Colts at 44 years old, the big question is whether Brady could come out of retirement to chase another championship.



Until a few days ago, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a> was the oldest player in the league at 42, but he has now been surpassed by Rivers. If Brady were to attempt that feat at 48, it would be spectacular, but unfortunately for his fans, it is highly unlikely.



<h2>Is Tom Brady coming out of retirement?</h2>



Tom Brady is not coming out of retirement, even though the former quarterback said in an interview with Colin Cowherd that he could still play in the NFL at 48. That statement sparked a lot of controversy on social media, which caused an old tweet by insider Jeff Darlington to resurface clarifying the situation.


 

 


Darlington’s message was published when Brady officially became a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023. That move is what prevents the legend from returning to the NFL with the Raiders or any other team.



“This should also put to rest any of the final few holdouts still wondering if Tom will come back out of retirement. NFL rules require a vote of all 32 teams to allow anyone to play while holding a financial interest in a club. So we can all move on now. Right?”


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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/philip-rivers-profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> return with the Indianapolis Colts reignited the discussion about a possible comeback for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a>. Now, the seven-time Super Bowl champion has finally unveiled if he will unretire to play in the NFL again.



At age 44, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/philip-rivers-net-worth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philip Rivers</a> has decided to play football again. Following this decision, many fans are wondering whether Tom Brady, 48, could follow his footsteps and make his long awaited comeback to the league. However, he does not believe there is any chance of that happening.



“Yes, I certainly could,” Tom Brady said Thursday on playing football again, via FOX Sports. “I think the answer for me would be yes. I’m not allowed to anymore because I’m a minority owner of the Raiders, so I can’t unretire.”



<h2>It is time to shut down the idea</h2>



Tom Brady last played in the NFL during the 2022 season. There is no doubt that the talent is still there, but thinking about a potential return is only driven by nostalgia.



The seven-time <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> champion has said before that he could still play football. However, at age 48, he is comfortable staying close to the sport in other ways, either analyzing it in the booth or helping the Raiders as a co owner.



Despite veteran quarterbacks such as Rivers or Aaron Rodgers still playing, Tom Brady has made his decision clear: he will not play again. He now has a definitive excuse, as being part owner of the Raiders makes it impossible for him to return due to league rules.


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<h2>No to football, but yes to flag football</h2>



Tom Brady will come out of retirement, but to play a different discipline. Next year, the NFL legend will participate in a flag football event in Saudi Arabia, a sport that requires far less physical demand than football.



The exhibition is not sanctioned by the NFL, as the league has clarified multiple times. Brady will be joined by players such as Christian McCaffrey, Saquon Barkley, and Myles Garrett, among others, in the flag football tournament scheduled for March.

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Tom Brady makes unexpected revelation about unretiring after Philip Rivers' return with Colts - Bolavip US

One of the headline stories of the day in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> is Philip Rivers’ return to the league, as he joins the Indianapolis Colts to replace Daniel Jones. At 44 years old, the quarterback is putting the helmet back on, playing well into his 40s just as the legendary <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a> once did.



Considered by many to be the true GOAT, Brady retired twice, with only one season separating the announcements. Initially, he declared he was stepping away from the game at age 44 in 2022; however, he returned for one more season and, wearing the Buccaneers uniform, finally decided to call it a career at age 45.



TB12’s spotless career—spent mostly wearing the colors of the New England Patriots—places him among the greatest players in the history of the sport. His unmatched physical durability allowed him to reach an age few have ever achieved, all while building a trophy-filled career.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philip-rivers">Rivers</a>’ return to the NFL makes it clear that while many quarterbacks manage to establish themselves at a young age, those past 40 can still rise to the occasion. Can the eight-time Pro Bowler lead the Colts to the long-awaited playoffs?



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251209_BUS_542441_tom-brady-1_37c4016f.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Tom Brady" class="wp-image-542470"></figure><figcaption>Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Brady defined a legacy of greatness</h2>



Tom Brady’s career is defined by unparalleled success, highlighted by his record seven Super Bowl championships—more than any single NFL franchise. He holds the all-time records for passing yards, passing touchdowns, and career wins. 


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TB12 was also named the Super Bowl MVP five times and secured three regular-season MVP awards. His longevity, competitive fire, and clutch performances cemented his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in history.



<h2>Other long-lived quarterbacks in the NFL</h2>



With the recent news, Philip Rivers is set to join an exclusive and highly experienced group of quarterbacks currently active in the NFL who are over the age of 40. This veteran cohort includes Aaron Rodgers and Joe Flacco, showcasing the remarkable longevity of top-tier signal-callers in the modern game. 



While other established veterans like Russell Wilson (37) and Tyrod Taylor (36) remain highly effective, they are notably younger than the prestigious 40+ club, further highlighting the rare status of Rivers, Rodgers, and Flacco in today’s league.

Philip Rivers returns to NFL at 44: How old was Tom Brady when he retired?

Philip Rivers returns to NFL at 44: How old was Tom Brady when he retired? - Bolavip US

The stage is set in Washington, D.C. for one of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a>’s most anticipated nights. On December 5, the draw that will shape the groups of the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a> steps into the spotlight but the event itself promises far more than just balls and bowls.



At the heart of the ceremony stand many unmistakable names, slated to co-host the broadcast from the historic John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Glamour, humour and Hollywood flair converge to usher in what many expect to be a global spectacle.



The ceremony also brings together sporting legends from across disciplines. Big stars will assist in revealing group-stage matchups, underscoring the global reach and crossover appeal of this expanded, 48-team <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa">FIFA</a> World Cup.



<h2>Who will conduct the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final draw?</h2>



FIFA Legend and former England captain <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rio-ferdinand">Rio Ferdinand</a> will take on the role of lead conductor for the historic 48-team draw, alongside award-winning broadcaster Samantha Johnson. Together, <a href="https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/articles/final-draw-ferdinand-brady-oneal-gretzky-judge">they will guide the official proceedings</a> that will determine the 12 groups for the expanded tournament.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251205_BUS_538936_Rio-Ferdinand-and-Samantha-Johnson_650191b8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-539024"></figure><figcaption>Rio Ferdinand and Samantha Johnson (Source: Lewis Storey/Getty Images — Brennan Asplen/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



“To conduct this historic draw is an unbelievable honour”, Ferdinand said. “As a player, I lived for these global stages — now I’m humbled to play a different, special role together with an incredible line-up to reveal the 12 groups of four teams that the whole world is waiting for”.



<h2>Which sports legends will serve as draw assistants?</h2>



The stage in Washington will also welcome a remarkable group of cross-sport icons serving as draw assistants. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a>, Wayne Gretzky, Aaron Judge and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shaquille-oneal">Shaquille O’Neal</a> will step into the spotlight, representing American football, ice hockey, baseball and basketball respectively.



“Being part of the Final Draw for the FIFA World Cup is an incredible honour — it’s the kind of global stage every athlete dreams of”, Brady said. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/wayne-gretzky">Gretzky</a> echoed that sentiment, highlighting the sport’s global reach, while <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-judge">Judge</a> pointed to the personal significance of the final being set in the New York–New Jersey area.



Adding another layer of star power, two-time Super Bowl champion <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/eli-manning">Eli Manning</a> will serve as the event’s red carpet host, welcoming guests as the world’s attention turns to the beginning of the 2026 World Cup journey.



<h2>Who are the entertainment co-hosts for the World Cup draw?</h2>



The Final Draw will be co-hosted by three global personalities with very different backgrounds but equal mainstream impact. Supermodel, producer and Emmy-winning TV host Heidi Klum returns to the World Cup draw stage two decades after her first appearance ahead of the 2006 tournament in Germany.



“This time, on an even bigger stage involving three host countries and 48 teams, is an incredible honour”, she said, reflecting on her return to the event, according to the <a href="https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/articles/star-studded-entertainment-line-up-announced-for-the-final-draw">official FIFA website</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251205_BUS_538936_Kevin-Hart-Heidi-Klum-and-Danny-Ramirez_2ceb9fc9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-539011"></figure><figcaption>Kevin Hart, Heidi Klum and Danny Ramirez (Source: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for REFORM Alliance — Amy Sussman/Getty Images — Andreas Rentz/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Joining her is Kevin Hart, one of the most successful comedians and actors of his generation, whose presence adds a high-energy, crossover appeal to the ceremony. Completing the hosting trio is actor and producer Danny Ramirez, who will connect with soccer legends in attendance and bring a distinct Hollywood flair to the broadcast.



“As someone who grew up playing football, getting to co-host the draw and meet and speak with World Cup legends at such a high-profile event is a dream”, Ramirez said, also highlighting his personal ties to the United States and Mexico.

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Who are the hosts for the FIFA World Cup 2026 draw? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Falcons</a> have confirmed that Michael Penix Jr. suffered a season-ending injury. Following the devastating news, the NFC South club has acquired a new quarterback — one who recently served as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a>’s backup.



On Wednesday, the Falcons announced that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-penix-jr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penix Jr</a>. suffered an ACL injury that will abruptly end his 2025 NFL season. It is a massive blow for the team, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirk-cousins" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kirk Cousins</a> is now set to take over as the starter.



To add depth to the position, the Falcons acted quickly. On Wednesday, Atlanta signed QB Kyle Trask to its practice squad, although he is not expected to be elevated to the active roster for Week 12.



<h2>Could Kyle Trask ‘steal’ Kirk Cousins’ job in Atlanta?</h2>



The season-ending injury to Michael Penix Jr. is a major blow for the Falcons. Head coach Raheem Morris viewed the rookie as the team’s future savior, but he will now have to rely on veteran Kirk Cousins to lead the offense.



Before Penix Jr.’s injury, Morris hinted multiple times that Cousins wasn’t his preferred quarterback. With the sophomore signal-caller now sidelined, the head coach seemingly has no choice but to trust Cousins… or does he?



Kyle Trask served as Tom Brady’s backup during TB12’s final season with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a>. When Brady retired, many assumed Trask would become the clear backup behind Baker Mayfield — but that offseason took an unexpected turn.


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When Mayfield signed with the Buccaneers, Trask emerged as a surprising challenger in the quarterback competition. Although Mayfield ultimately won the job and the rest is history, Trask’s performance raised eyebrows and proved he could push a veteran.



While Morris has publicly stated that Cousins will remain the starter and Easton Stick the backup, Trask should not be counted out. The head coach has never been fully sold on Cousins, and any slip-up from the veteran could quickly put Trask in the conversation.


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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a> has more Super Bowl rings than any franchise in the NFL. Therefore, you should assume he doesn’t have much regrets or bad memories. In the end, he is the undisputed G.O.A.T of the sport. But, if you know Tom Brady, you also know he always has a chip on his shoulder, and he revealed one play lives rent free in his mind thanks to the Philadelphia Eagles.



Brady is a FOX Sports analyst nowadays. In a segment called ‘Storytime with Tom‘, he revealed that Super Bowl LII, and the ‘Philly Special‘ specifically, still give him nightmares. “That was a crushing defeat for a lot of reasons,” Brady said. “Any time I see a trick play from the Eagles, I get PTSD... And that’s not fun when you’re a broadcaster calling a game.”



Brady wasn’t responsible for that Super Bowl loss, though. During Super Bowl LII, Brady completed 28/48 passes for 505 yards, three touchdowns, no interceptions and a 115.4 passe rating. It’s arguably one of the best games in his career individually.



<h2>The actual blame falls on someone else</h2>



Nick Foles was the quarterback for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-eagles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eagles</a>. He also had a pretty good game, having 373 yards, three touchdowns and one interception for a 106.1 passer rating. Now, as weird as it sounds, it was Patriots’ head coach Bill Belichick the one who helped Foles have that kind of game. Why? He benched cornerback Malcolm Butler.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Five years ago today, the Eagles ran "Philly Special" in Super Bowl LII. The rest is history 🏆 (via <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBCSports</a>)<a href="https://t.co/aEcjJCN3Wr">pic.twitter.com/aEcjJCN3Wr</a>— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) <a href="https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1621927129234690049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bill-belichick" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Belichick</a> had a personal issue with Butler, and he benched him. Butler was New England’s second-highest-rated CB that season according to Pro Football Focus. Not only that, he was a clutch player who already won Super Bowls with the team and actually played a big part in those victories. ESPN’s Seth Wickersham said Butler was benched due to a screaming match he had with Matt Patricia in practice. Belichick’s ego got in the way of a probable Super Bowl win.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/tom-brady-net-worth"></div>


<h2>Brady will return to Minnesota</h2>



Super Bowl LII was the last time Brady played in Minnesota. Now, he will be back as a broadcaster for the Bears vs. Vikings game. For a guy as competitive as Brady, reliving all these moments must be a bittersweet moment. 



While he still loves talking ball, it’s inevitable for him to just forget or ignore all the memories he lived as a player. It’s one of the more challenging things for him in his new duties as an analyst.

The one play that broke him: Tom Brady’s dark confession about the Eagles’ ‘Philly Special’

The one play that broke him: Tom Brady's dark confession about the Eagles' 'Philly Special' - Bolavip US

For many football fans, there has never been a greater player than <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a>. However, Terry Bradshaw refuses to share that opinion — and believes there’s someone else who deserves the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>’s GOAT title.



Tom Brady completely changed the NFL. Over 23 seasons, he won seven Super Bowl rings — six with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> and one with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — cementing his place in history.



Nevertheless, NFL legend <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/terry-bradshaw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Terry Bradshaw</a> doesn’t think that’s enough to crown Brady as the greatest of all time. Now, the Pittsburgh Steelers icon has revealed his own pick — and it might surprise many fans.



<h2>Terry Bradshaw says Super Bowl rings don’t make Tom Brady the GOAT</h2>



The NFL has seen plenty of legendary quarterbacks, and fate has brought two of them together at Fox: Terry Bradshaw and Tom Brady, both <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> champions and two of the best signal-callers the league has ever seen.



While the two get along well, Bradshaw doesn’t believe in blindly praising his peers — and he just made that clear.



During an appearance on the Nothing Left Unsaid podcast, Bradshaw was asked who he believes is the greatest quarterback of all time. The Steelers legend questioned why so many fans automatically call Tom Brady the undisputed GOAT.


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“People always say, ‘Tom Brady is the greatest quarterback to ever play.’ Okay — is he really?” Terry Bradshaw said. “Otto Graham might be the greatest quarterback to ever play. How many titles did Otto win? Ten? Look it up. And Tom lost three.”



<h2>Fact check: Otto Graham’s forgotten greatness</h2>



Otto Graham won seven titles with the Cleveland Browns, though several came before the NFL’s modern era. His first four were in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC), which had just eight teams. He later won three more in the NFL, which then had only 12 to 13 franchises.



Tom Brady, meanwhile, claimed his seven championships in the Super Bowl era — competing against 31 and later 32 teams. Both quarterbacks share the same number of titles, but they achieved them under entirely different circumstances.

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Terry Bradshaw refuses to call Tom Brady the GOAT, makes surprising pick instead - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a> impressed fans once again, this time not with his arm, but with his insight. While calling the Los Angeles Rams’ latest game, Brady praised Sean McVay’s offensive creativity. “This 3 TE grouping is all based on Puka Nacua getting injured,” he explained. “They continue to find the matchups they like vs. safeties and linebackers. It’s so impressive, they’re really using their personnel groupings as a weapon today.”



The former quarterback pointed out how necessity has fueled Los Angeles’ success. “They say necessity is the mother of invention,” Brady noted, highlighting how the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Rams</a> adapted after losing one of their top receivers. Instead of slowing down, McVay’s offense has thrived by creating mismatches and confusing defenses with versatility and alignment shifts.



Brady also dove deep into the tactical side of the game. “When you go to a 3 TE grouping and they play base defense, you’re dealing with 3 or 4 combinations,” he said. “It simplifies the defensive playbook by about 20% and allows you as a play-caller to dial up exactly what you want.” Rams fans couldn’t get enough by Brady’s sharp football mind.



<h2>Rams fans react to Brady’s analysis</h2>



Rams fans seemed thrilled by Brady’s breakdown, especially coming from an analyst who deeply understands football. “He’s one of the few people in the media who actually understands just how good Stafford is and he’s not afraid to say it out loud,” said one fan (@fizzy_fanta72).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="648" height="499" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251110_BUS_523735_image-1_b8b14784.webp&amp;width=648&amp;height=499" alt="" class="wp-image-523736"></figure></figure>



Another Rams fan highlighted Brady’s improved broadcasting, writing, “That was the best game that I can remember him calling. Perhaps, he has improved with more reps. But I am not always a reliable narrator,” wrote Jack Gladney (@davidbrad65).


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<h2>Brady identifies Rams’ single weakness</h2>



Brady certainly analyzed the Rams deeply during their dominant win over the 49ers. “If you are looking at offense, defense, there is not a better team in the league,” he declared during his analysis on Fox. However, he also revealed what he views as their one flaw: “The issue has been their kicking game.”



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">"If you are looking at offense, defense, there is not a better team in the league. The issue has been their kicking game.” – <a href="https://twitter.com/TomBrady?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TomBrady</a> on the Rams <a href="https://t.co/rksAQ0ZBkd">pic.twitter.com/rksAQ0ZBkd</a>— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLonFOX/status/1987675500698100198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2025</a></blockquote></div>

Tom Brady delivers masterclass analysis on why the Rams offense looks unstoppable

Tom Brady delivers masterclass analysis on why the Rams offense looks unstoppable - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a> grew up as a big fan of the San Francisco 49ers. That’s why, after winning the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> six times with the Patriots and another with the Buccaneers, the legendary quarterback admitted it hurt him deeply that the team he loved didn’t consider him and instead chose another player at his position in the 2000 NFL Draft. It all happened during an interview with Fox.



“You know, my allegiance to the 49ers left when they skipped over me six times in the 2000 Draft. So, every time I wanted to play the 49ers, I just wanted to make sure that the coaches who were out there at the time, you chose a goat farmer (Giovanni Carmazzi) over me. I never forgot that.”



In the end, Bill Belichick and the Patriots selected Brady in the sixth round, and the rest is history. New England became the winningest franchise in the NFL, tying the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a>, while the 49ers haven’t won a championship in more than three decades.



<h2>What was Tom Brady’s draft pick?</h2>



Tom Brady was the 199th overall pick in the 2000 Draft, a decision that forever changed the history of the NFL. Months later, taking advantage of an injury to Drew Bledsoe, the young prospect from Michigan took the league by storm, becoming the greatest player of all time.


 

 


The legend noted that the fact 31 teams didn’t see him as a franchise quarterback motivated him throughout his entire career. Brady also always kept in mind that even the Patriots took their time before drafting him.



“I will say they all passed over me six times and in fact the Patriots passed over me five times. So, they were just one less than everybody else which is, you know, that’s okay. It all worked out. There were not a lot of people clamoring for my ability to go out there and play quarterback for them.”


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Tom Brady takes a historic shot at San Francisco 49ers with shocking message

Tom Brady takes a historic shot at 49ers with shocking message - Bolavip US

Tom Brady takes a historic shot at 49ers

It starts with a flick of the wrist and ends in chaos… ninety, sometimes ninety-nine yards of pure disbelief. The kind of plays that silence a stadium for a heartbeat before erupting into thunder. 



Some came from legends in their prime, others from backups with nothing to lose. But each one turned the improbable into highlight-reel immortality, traveling farther than logic—or even hope—should allow.



Across decades, these deep bombs have defined careers, crushed defenses, and reminded everyone why the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> is as much about spectacle as precision. These are the passes that rewrote what “too far” means in football.



<h2>The 99-yard touchdown passes in NFL history</h2>



The longest touchdown pass that can possibly be thrown in the NFL is 99 yards. This feat is so rare and so dependent on perfect execution under extreme pressure that it has only been accomplished 13 times in the entire history of the league. It is a record that, by the very design of the field, can never be broken.



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Every NFL 99 Yard Touchdown (1983-2018)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kXSjadJmHzI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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For a 99-yard pass to occur, three crucial elements must align:



<ul><li>The starting point: The offense must be backed up to its own one-yard line, meaning the ball is just three feet away from a potential safety. This high-pressure starting position is inherently risky and often dictates a conservative, run-heavy play call.</li></ul>



<ul><li>The execution: The quarterback must complete the pass, and the receiver must run the entire 99 yards to the opposing end zone. This turns the play into a dramatic footrace of speed, vision, and endurance against a defense determined to stop the score.</li></ul>



<ul><li>The result: The play covers the entire length of the field, making it the longest single-play touchdown in the history of the sport (excluding special teams returns or fumble recoveries that start behind the goal line).</li></ul>



<h2>History and the elite club of 99-yarders</h2>



The first instance of a 99-yard touchdown pass occurred in 1939, and the most recent was in the 2011 season. This long gap highlights just how difficult this perfect alignment is to achieve…



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"><table><tbody><tr><td>Passer</td><td>Receiver</td><td>Team</td><td>Opponent</td><td>Date</td></tr><tr><td>Eli Manning</td><td>Victor Cruz</td><td>New York Giants</td><td>New York Jets</td><td>Dec 24, 2011</td></tr><tr><td>Tom Brady</td><td>Wes Welker</td><td>New England Patriots</td><td>Miami Dolphins</td><td>Sept 12, 2011</td></tr><tr><td>Gus Frerotte</td><td>Bernard Berrian</td><td>Minnesota Vikings</td><td>Chicago Bears</td><td>Nov 30, 2008</td></tr><tr><td>Jeff Garcia</td><td>André Davis</td><td>Cleveland Browns</td><td>Cincinnati Bengals</td><td>Oct 17, 2004</td></tr><tr><td>Trent Green</td><td>Marc Boerigter</td><td>Kansas City Chiefs</td><td>San Diego Chargers</td><td>Dec 22, 2002</td></tr><tr><td>Brett Favre</td><td>Robert Brooks</td><td>Green Bay Packers</td><td>Chicago Bears</td><td>Sept 11, 1995</td></tr><tr><td>Stan Humphries</td><td>Tony Martin</td><td>San Diego Chargers</td><td>Seattle Seahawks</td><td>Sept 18, 1994</td></tr><tr><td>Ron Jaworski</td><td>Mike Quick</td><td>Philadelphia Eagles</td><td>Atlanta Falcons</td><td>Nov 10, 1985</td></tr><tr><td>Jim Plunkett</td><td>Cliff Branch</td><td>Los Angeles Raiders</td><td>Washington Redskins</td><td>Oct 2, 1983</td></tr><tr><td>Sonny Jurgensen</td><td>Jerry Allen</td><td>Washington Redskins</td><td>Chicago Bears</td><td>Sept 15, 1968</td></tr><tr><td>Karl Sweetan</td><td>Pat Studstill</td><td>Detroit Lions</td><td>Baltimore Colts</td><td>Oct 16, 1966</td></tr><tr><td>George Izo</td><td>Bobby Mitchell</td><td>Washington Redskins</td><td>Cleveland Browns</td><td>Sept 15, 1963</td></tr><tr><td>Frank Filchock</td><td>Andy Farkas</td><td>Washington Redskins</td><td>Pittsburgh Pirates</td><td>Oct 15, 1939</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h3>The unique 2011 season</h3>



The 2011 NFL season stands alone as the only year in history where the 99-yard touchdown pass was accomplished twice. First, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady">Tom Brady</a> connected with Wes Welker early in the season, a feat that was surprising given that the duo was primarily known for their short, precise passing game. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251104_BUS_520730_Tom-Brady-1-1024x576_d5bae207.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-520807" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots (Source: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Their deep bomb proved that their technical mastery could translate into field-flipping plays. Later that season, on Christmas Eve, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/eli-manning">Eli Manning</a> connected with Victor Cruz. This dramatic play was instrumental in the New York Giants’ late-season push to the playoffs, where they ultimately went on to win the Super Bowl, making it one of the most consequential 99-yard touchdowns in history.



<h3>The dynamics: Air yards vs. yards after catch</h3>



It is crucial to understand that a 99-yard pass play is not necessarily a 99-yard throw. The total distance is a critical combination of two factors: Air Yards (the distance the ball travels in the air) and Yards After Catch (YAC), which is the distance the receiver runs after securing the ball. 



In many of the earlier recorded instances, the majority of the 99 yards came from the receiver’s effort and speed, with the pass itself being relatively short. For instance, in 1939, receiver Andy Farkas ran almost 90 yards after the catch. 



Conversely, in later examples, such as the Gus Frerotte to Bernard Berrian connection in 2008, the throw was a soaring bomb, covering a significant portion of the total distance in the air. 



The 99-yard touchdown pass remains the gold standard for long passing plays, representing a perfect storm of offensive positioning, quarterback execution, and pure receiver speed.

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