Tom Brady has said on more than one occasion that he hopes to play in the NFL until he is at least 45, but he has just two years remaining on his contract with the New England Patriots. With the quarterback set to carry big cap hits in 2018 and 2019, the assumption has been that another contract extension is in the works.
Apparently not.
In an interview with Jeff Howe of The Athletic, Patriots owner Robert Kraft said the topic of an extension for Brady has not come up. While he said it will be addressed “if it becomes an issue,” it’s interesting that Kraft alluded to Brady’s age.
“He’ll be 41 when the season starts,” Kraft said. “Neither side has an issue with it. If it becomes an issue, we’ll deal with it.”
For what it’s worth, a source told Howe that Brady “would most certainly entertain contract negotiations,” which seems to indicate that his stance on playing another four or five years has not changed. Although, Brady did seem to hint in his “Tom vs. Time” documentary series that he could retire sooner than that.
“I hope he plays,” Kraft said when asked if he believes Brady will play until at least 45. “He’s at a different point in his life. He talked about it. It’s interesting to see that Tom vs. Time and see where he’s at, his kids growing up. But that is something for he and his family to decide what is right for him. Me personally, I’d like to see him play as long as he can.”
Brady and Kraft have always maintained a strong relationship, even with the supposed drama that has been ongoing between Brady’s personal trainer and Bill Belichick. While we have heard some funny hoax stories about the four-time Super Bowl MVP’s contract situation this offseason, it would not be a surprise if he goes into 2018 without a new deal. Having two years remaining on a contract when you’re about to turn 41 isn’t exactly insulting, even if you are the greatest quarterback to ever live.
