Tom Brady was key to one Bucs free agent signing

Tom Brady has wasted little time putting his stamp back on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as well as the players they are acquiring.

Brady on Sunday announced his decision to end his brief retirement, and it sounds like he has been hard at work since then. On Tuesday, the Buccaneers agreed to a three-year contract with former Falcons wide receiver Russell Gage, adding depth to the team’s receiving corps. Gage had interest from multiple teams, but according to Peter Schrager of FOX Sports, a phone call from Brady sealed the deal.

Here’s a great nugget from this week. WR Russell Gage was debating where to sign; had a few choices. Got a call from Tom Brady, 1 day after returning to the team.

Brady told Gage that they’re building something special and he’s been a fan of his game. Get aboard. @gmfb

— Peter Schrager (@PSchrags) March 16, 2022

Brady recruiting is nothing new. He has consistently done so since joining the Buccaneers, and the likes of Rob Gronkowski certainly would not have come to Tampa without him.

This would certainly be strong evidence that lingering speculation about a possible Brady trade is unfounded. If he’s actively trying to bring in players he wants to play with, he is not going anywhere.

Photo: Sep 9, 2021; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) reacts after defeating the Dallas Cowboys at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports