Lasting Legacy of Tom Brady: A Look at the Influence on History

A detailed timeline of the impact and legacy of Tom Brady across different fields.

Tom Brady is a retired American football quarterback, widely considered the greatest of all time. He played 23 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the New England Patriots, leading them to a dynasty from 2001-2019. He won seven Super Bowl titles, more than any other player, and holds numerous NFL records. His final three seasons were with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before retiring. He is now a sports broadcaster.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1978: Undefeated Regular Season

In 1978, the 16-game schedule was implemented. Tom Brady led the Patriots to the first undefeated regular season since then.

1990: Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year

In 1990, Joe Montana won the Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year. Brady was named the Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year.

2001: Start of Patriots' Dynasty

In 2001, Tom Brady and Bill Belichick initiated the New England Patriots' dynasty, which lasted until 2019.

2012: Ranked Fourth-Best NFL Player

For his efforts in the 2011 season, Tom Brady was named as the fourth-best player in the NFL on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2012 by his peers.

2013: Ranked Fourth by Fellow Players

For the 2012 season, Tom Brady was ranked fourth by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2013, marking his second consecutive year in that position.

2013: ESPN Declares Greatest Passing Season

In 2013, ESPN unanimously voted Tom Brady's 2007 season the greatest passing season of all time.

2015: Ranked Third by Fellow Players

Tom Brady was ranked third by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2015 list after the 2014 season.

September 19, 2017: Publication of "The TB12 Method"

On September 19, 2017, Simon & Schuster published Brady's first book The TB12 Method: How to Achieve a Lifetime of Sustained Peak Performance, which became a number one best-seller.

2017: Ranked First on NFL Top 100 Players

In 2017, Tom Brady was ranked first on the NFL Top 100 Players as the best player in the league, becoming the first player to be named as #1 twice since the listing began.

2019: Named to the 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

In 2019, Tom Brady was unanimously named to the NFL's 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, marking his lasting impact on the sport.

February 1, 2022: Brady Announces Retirement

On February 1, 2022, after 22 seasons, Tom Brady announced his retirement from the NFL.

May 10, 2022: Fox Sports Deal Announced

On May 10, 2022, Fox Sports announced that Brady would join the network as the lead color commentator for $375 million over 10 years, making him the highest paid sports commentator in history.

February 1, 2023: Retirement Announcement

On February 1, 2023, Brady announced his retirement from the NFL "for good" on social media.

September 10, 2023: Hall of Fame Candidacy Waived

On September 10, 2023, Patriots owner Robert Kraft announced that he would waive the traditional waiting period for Brady's candidacy to the Patriots Hall of Fame, and directly induct him without the customary ballot.

2023: 2004 Patriots Last Team to Win Second Straight Super Bowl Until 2023 Season

Up until the 2023 season, the 2004 New England Patriots were the last NFL team to win a second straight Super Bowl.

June 12, 2024: Patriots Hall of Fame Induction

On June 12, 2024, Brady was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame, with the date referencing the number of championships he won in New England, and became a "Keeper of the Light."