Even with his friends, Tom Brady is taking a playful and cryptic approach to questions about where he’ll land for the 2020 NFL season.
The New England Patriots quarterback and pending free agent got into a text conversation with his friends, movie stars Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, and they were curious about whether Brady intends to stay with Bill Belichick or whether the quarterback will sign with a new team for the first time in his 20-year career. Brady wasn’t giving any hints. Affleck went on ESPN’s “Get Up” and revealed that he got nothing more than a shrugging emoji.
A classic case of Brady, who has been nothing but vague when asked about the decision. Here’s Affleck telling an entertaining story about the exchange.
Brady seems very open to the idea of returning to the Patriots, but multiple reports have indicated he wants New England to make an investment in skill players this offseason. The quarterback struggled in 2019 when surrounded by the likes of receivers Julian Edelman, Mohamed Sanu and rookies N’Keal Harry and Jakobi Meyers. The tight end position was basically a non-factor. Edelman was a workhorse, but his health deteriorated after carrying the offense for most of the season.
As Brady tests the market, he’ll likely see what other teams can offer in terms of contracts and supporting cast. And if there’s an open line of communication between Brady and Belchick, the quarterback could see whether the Patriots can make an equally enticing offer.
Brady can sign an extension with the Patriots at any point. He can begin negotiations with the other 31 NFL teams on March 16 and he can sign with a new team on March 18.
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