In a revealing 10-part documentary titled Dynasty on Apple TV+, shedding light on the New England Patriots, Tom Brady clarified the circumstances surrounding his unexpected departure from the team during the 2020 offseason. After two decades with the Patriots, Brady, for the first time in his career, was poised to enter free agency.
Contrary to speculations that Brady might reconsider signing with the Patriots if presented with a fair offer, the legendary quarterback asserted that such an option was never on the table.
In the documentary, Brady disclosed that he had no intentions of returning to New England in 2020 due to a strained relationship with Patriots head coach Bill Belichick.
While acknowledging the 20 years of collaboration and competition with Belichick, Brady expressed that he wasn’t willing to extend his contract with the Patriots, even if he desired to play until the age of 50. The perceived deterioration of his relationship with Belichick played a pivotal role in this decision.
Brady’s resolve to leave became evident the night before he announced his departure, as he visited Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Despite any hopes Kraft may have had to convince Brady to stay, the quarterback had already made up his mind.
Although Brady had alluded to the possibility of 2019 being his final season with the Patriots in an interview in April 2020, the documentary offers a more in-depth perspective.
Financial considerations also played a role in the decision, as Brady sought a two-year, $50 million commitment from the Patriots in 2019, which was not fulfilled. Consequently, Brady found the desired contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers instead, marking a significant shift in his illustrious career.
