Now that Tom Brady has officially signed his contract to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it’s time to address the elephant in the room: that No. 12 jersey.
As I wrote the other week before Brady announced his decision to leave the New England Patriots, the Bucs’ potential signing of the Golden Boy could make things awkward for Pro Bowl receiver Chris Godwin, who dons the No. 12 jersey for Tampa Bay. Brady wore 12 his entire 20-year career with the Pats and made it part of his infamous TB12 brand.
So, now that Brady is officially Tampa bound, what will Godwin do? The receiver answered that question in a video interview with the Bucs’ website.
Per Godwin:
“Obviously if he doesn’t want it, or if he’s not making a big deal out of it, I’m definitely going to keep it. We’ll see how that goes. I think just out of respect for what he’s done, what he’s accomplished, just kind of the career he’s built for himself, you have to lean into that respect.”
Godwin has worn the No. 12 since his high school days. Brady, who wore No. 10 at Michigan, wanted that number when he joined the Pats, but it was already taken. Turns out it was the Patriots’ then-equipment manager who assigned Brady No. 12.
Even if Brady wanted No. 10, that number is already taken by wide receiver Scotty Miller. It should be interesting to see which number Brady eventually lands on. But, one thing is for sure, you can bet his Bucs jersey will be one of the top sellers in the league next year.
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