Tom Brady's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 18, 2026

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Tom Brady. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Tom Brady is widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in NFL history. Selected in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots, he evolved into a legendary figure, leading the franchise to six Super Bowl titles over two decades. In 2020, he joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, securing a seventh Super Bowl victory and further cementing his legacy. Throughout his 23-season career, Brady set numerous NFL records for passing yards, touchdowns, and completions. His unparalleled work ethic, ability to perform under pressure, and longevity transformed him into an iconic sports figure. After retiring in 2023, he transitioned into sports broadcasting, leaving behind a resume defined by seven championships and three NFL MVP awards, widely considered the gold standard for excellence in professional football.

Sections (7)

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

1998: Michigan Football Season and Record-Setting Performance

In 1998, Tom Brady served as the starting quarterback for the University of Michigan, earning All-Big Ten Conference honorable mention honors and helping the team share the Big Ten title, while setting a new school record for completions in a single game during a contest against Ohio State.

1998: Rose Bowl Victory

The 1998 Rose Bowl victory capped off the University of Michigan's undefeated 1997 season and earned them a share of the national championship.

1999: Citrus Bowl Victory and Conclusion of Michigan Career

During the 1999 season, Tom Brady continued his tenure as Michigan's starting quarterback, served as team captain, and led his team to a 45–31 victory over Arkansas in the 1999 Citrus Bowl to conclude his collegiate season.

2000: Victory at the 2000 Orange Bowl

During the year 2000, Tom Brady led the Michigan Wolverines to a victory in the Orange Bowl, capping off a successful collegiate career where he set multiple statistical school records.

2000: 2000 Orange Bowl Victory

In 2000, Tom Brady led the Michigan Wolverines to a thrilling overtime victory against Alabama in the Orange Bowl. During the game, he threw for 369 yards and four touchdowns, successfully guiding his team back from two 14-point deficits and setting a BCS bowl record with 35 completions.

2000: Selection in the 2000 NFL Draft

In 2000, Tom Brady was selected 199th overall by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the NFL draft, a moment that would eventually be viewed as one of the greatest draft steals in league history.

2001: Beginning of the Brady-Belichick Dynasty

In 2001, Tom Brady became the primary starter for the New England Patriots, marking the start of the Brady-Belichick era and the team's first Super Bowl XXXVI victory.

2001: Start of the New England Patriots Dynasty

In 2001, Tom Brady began his central contribution to the New England Patriots franchise dynasty, which would span until 2019.

2003: Second Super Bowl Championship

In 2003, Tom Brady and the New England Patriots secured their second championship title during the team's historic dynasty period.

2003: Junípero Serra High School Hall of Fame Induction

In 2003, Tom Brady received the honor of being inducted into the Junípero Serra High School Hall of Fame.

2004: Third Super Bowl Championship

In 2004, Tom Brady helped lead the New England Patriots to another consecutive championship title, cementing their status as an NFL dynasty.

2007: Perfect Regular Season and MVP Award

In 2007, Tom Brady led his team to a historic 16–0 regular season record and was honored with his first league MVP award.

2008: First consecutive start streak ended by injury

In 2008, Tom Brady's impressive streak of over 100 consecutive starts as a quarterback came to an end due to an injury sustained during the season.

2009: Start of Consecutive Division Titles

Beginning in 2009, Tom Brady helped lead the New England Patriots to a streak of 11 consecutive division titles, which continued through 2019.

2010: Unanimous League MVP Award

In 2010, Tom Brady was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player, marking the first time a player had received this honor unanimously.

2011: Beginning of Consecutive AFC Championship Game Appearances

Starting in 2011, Tom Brady guided the New England Patriots to eight consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances, a streak that lasted through 2018.

2012: Naming of Brady Family Stadium

Following his appearance in Super Bowl XLVI, Tom Brady visited Junípero Serra High School in 2012, where administrators honored him by naming the school's football stadium the Brady Family Stadium.

2016: Second consecutive start streak ended by suspension

In 2016, Tom Brady saw his second career streak of over 100 consecutive starts conclude as a result of a league-imposed suspension.

2017: Third League MVP Award

Tom Brady was recognized for his performance by receiving his third career NFL league MVP award in 2017.

2018: Conclusion of AFC Championship Streak

The year 2018 served as the final year of an impressive eight-year run where Tom Brady and the New England Patriots qualified for every AFC Championship Game.

2019: Named to 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

In 2019, Tom Brady was unanimously selected to the NFL's 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, further cementing his status as one of the greatest players in professional football history.

2019: End of Consecutive Division Titles Streak

The year 2019 marked the conclusion of an 11-year streak during which Tom Brady led the New England Patriots to consecutive division titles.

2019: Conclusion of Patriots Tenure

The year 2019 marked the end of Tom Brady's 20-season tenure with the New England Patriots, concluding the primary phase of the franchise dynasty he helped build.

2020: Move to the Buccaneers and Super Bowl Victory

In 2020, Tom Brady joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and secured a victory in Super Bowl LV, bringing his total career count to seven Super Bowl wins.

2021: NFC South Title and Historical Victory Milestone

In 2021, Tom Brady led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to an NFC South title and became one of only four quarterbacks in NFL history to defeat all 32 league teams.