In an interview with CNN on Thursday morning, Patriots owner Robert Kraft expressed his willingness to sign Tom Brady to a one-day contract so that Brady could retire as a Patriot.
“I’ll do it tomorrow,” Kraft said when asked by hosts Don Lemon and Bobby Harlow about the possibility. Not only do I want it, our fans are calling for him and for us, he always was and always will be a Patriot…we will do everything we can to bring him back, sign as a Patriot and find ways to honor him for many years to come. He has done so much to bring life and good encouragement to our community and he is such a beloved figure And he’s earned the respect and love that people have for him like no other athlete in our town and we have some greats.”
Brady announced his retirement on Wednesday morning, releasing a self-shot video that followed his original retirement that came exactly one year ago and lasted just 40 days before Brady decided to return to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for another season. But this time, Brady said he called it a real resignation and sparked an outpouring of messages and support from across the league on social media, including a video posted by Robert Kraft and a statement from Bill Belichick.
Brady left the Patriots after the 2019 season and played three more seasons with the Pirates, returning to face his team during the 2021 regular season and defeating New England in the last minutes after a difficult relationship. His next return to Foxborough should be even more satisfying for Patriots fans as the quarterback who helped lead them to six titles and 20 years of dominance is finally home.
“Tommy, I’m always here for you, you’re part of our family,” Kraft said in conclusion when asked to send a final message to the former quarterback. “I just love the guy so much and there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for him and I think he can do so much good for America and connect with so many people. Thanks for the time you’ve given us and everyone here in the New England area loves you and respects you and wants you to be happy in your life.” .