What Does Tom Brady’s Retirement Mean for the Vikings?
K. Joudry
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The news seems less stunning given all the recent discussion about Tom Brady’s retirement. Even still, it is stunning news. The all-time greatest player in NFL history has officially announced he is retiring from the NFL. Does the Tom Brady retirement have any significance for the Vikings?
The short answer is yes, it certainly does. Before unpacking that, though, let’s first begin with his announcement.
PFT offers up the details. Here is the snippet they pulled from his social media post:
“My playing career has been such a thrilling ride, and far beyond my imagination, and full of ups and downs,” Brady wrote. “When you’re in it every day, you really don’t think about any kind of ending. As I sit here now, however, I think of all the great players and coaches I was privileged to play with and against — the competition was fierce and deep, JUST HOW WE LIKE IT. But the friendships and relationships are just as fierce and deep. I will remember and cherish those memories and re-visit them often. I feel like the luckiest person in the world.”
Brady goes on to suggest that “[t]his is difficult for me to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore.” Again, stunning.
The most obvious implication is that the NFC just got a lot less dangerous. Brady led the Bucs to a Super Bowl victory last season. This season, he almost turned his playoff magic into yet another incredible comeback. Even at his age, Brady still has the it-factor, the ability to elevate his play – and the team’s play – at the most important moments.
Now, the Bucs aren’t going to be completely without talent. They still have a formidable front seven. They still have talent along the OL, and Mike Evans is a great WR. Retaining Chris Godwin means they’d have a really strong receiver pair.
Nevertheless, it’s difficult to find consistent success without strong play at QB. Brady gave them elite play. Take a look at New Orleans for a recent example. I’m of the opinion that the Saints dealt with far more than just losing Drew Brees, though it does illustrate how QB instability exacerbates other issues.
Another factor that isn’t all that related to Tom Brady – but certainly is related to the Vikings – is the upcoming decision about Aaron Rodgers’ future. It’s possible that the conference will lose its two greatest QBs in the same offseason. The end result will likely be a new hierarchy in the conference.
One more thing. Does Brady’s announcement impact anything with Cousins’ future in Minnesota? There’s something to be said about adding on another team looking for a QB who can compete in the immediate future. Not saying the Bucs are interested, just pointing out that it’s now a possibility.
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