As Las Vegas Raiders co-owner Tom Brady steps into the broadcast booth for his highly anticipated role with FOX Sports, he’s already making it clear how he plans to approach the job – and more importantly, what he intends to avoid.
The seven-time Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots, widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, says he has no intention of harshly criticizing current players during his commentary.
Speaking to Complex Sports, Brady was candid about how he wants to use his voice as an analyst. His primary goal isn’t to nitpick mistakes or take shots at players, but instead to highlight the best aspects of the game and those who play it.
“How can I throw shade at someone who’s as amazing as he is? I know what he’s been through,” Brady said.
That philosophy reflects Brady’s own experience. Over a two-decade career filled with accolades and records, he endured intense scrutiny from fans, analysts, and media personalities. Now that the shoe is on the other foot, Brady is choosing to bring empathy into his role, offering a perspective that he feels is missing from traditional sports commentary.
“You realize it’s not about this harsh critique, and that’s really not what it’s all about anyway. To me, it’s more about, let’s point out the greatness of these individual players. Have fun. Enjoy it. Entertain a little bit. And really try to educate people a little bit.”
A fresh voice in the booth
Brady’s broadcast career officially began in 2024 as part of his blockbuster 10-year, $375 million deal with Fox Sports. His partner in the booth is Kevin Burkhardt, the network’s lead play-by-play announcer.
Brady’s long-term deal is one of the most lucrative ever signed in sports media, underscoring how much faith Fox has in his ability to draw viewers and elevate their NFL coverage.
Unlike many ex-players who take a more critical approach to analyzing games, Brady’s outlook is refreshingly positive. Rather than dissect every error, he wants to spotlight the precision and talent required at the professional level – especially at the quarterback position, where he made his name.
His comments have resonated with fans and athletes alike, especially in an era when social media amplifies criticism and hot takes often overshadow thoughtful analysis. Brady’s method suggests a potential shift in the tone of NFL broadcasts, one that values context and appreciation over controversy.
As a former player, Brady understands the stakes. He knows the physical toll of the sport, the complexities behind each decision, and the immense pressure that comes with performing under the spotlight. That empathy shapes his decision to avoid tearing others down.
With this mindset, Brady is positioning himself to not only bring credibility to the booth, but also a much-needed dose of perspective – all while helping audiences better understand the beauty of football.
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