Brady, Bruce, and the Buccaneers

Tom Brady announced via social media on Tuesday, March 17 that he would not be returning to the New England Patriots. This statement marked the end of his illustrious 20-year career with the Patriots, which amassed six Super Bowl wins, three MVPs, and 14 Pro Bowl appearances. There is no debate that Brady is the greatest quarterback of all time, but can the G.O.A.T. continue to achieve greatness with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers?

Before Brady even announced that he was leaving the Patriots, we all knew it was unlikely he would stay. Growing tension between the head coach of the Patriots, Bill Belichick, known as the greatest coach of all time, and Robert Craft, the owner of the Patriots, halted contract talks, and other teams seemed to be lining up to give Brady everything. According to numerous pundits, the Los Angeles Chargers, the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Tennessee Titans were most likely to acquire him. Recruiting Brady would require severe commitment, though. Brady wanted at least $30 million per year with a say in signing players. Most importantly, Brady wanted to live close to the east coast, where he can readily visit his family.

Not only did Brady sign for the Buccaneers, but he also shocked everyone by signing a two-year $50 million contract. This contract disallowed Brady from being traded or franchise tagged. This guarantees that Brady will be with the Buccaneers for two years, a short window to win a Super Bowl.

With the Buccaneers’ release of quarterback Jameis Winston, known as the “defensive player of the year,” for throwing thirty interceptions last season (let’s say future MVP), there is only room for the team to improve.

The Buccaneers’ shortcomings don't stop there. They have not made a playoff appearance since 2007, currently the second longest tenure in the NFL. When we think this is finally the year for the Buccaneers, they seem to be falling apart. The “Super Bowl offense” everyone has been touting for years has only led to disappointment.

But with Brady joining them, the Buccaneers are finally Super Bowl contenders.

After hiding under a paper bag for being a Buccaneers fan, I now see a new light, not only because of Brady but also because of his collaboration with Bruce Arians, the head coach of the Buccaneers. Bruce Arians’s offense is known for its “no risk it, no biscuit” gameplan. Big plays lead to big wins, and Brady knows how to win big. Bruce also utilizes twice the amount of plays that an average NFL team would usually have. He only needs a veteran quarterback to be successful.

Known as the “quarterback whisperer,” Bruce has coached the likes of Peyton Manning, Ben Roethlisberger, Andrew Luck, and Carson Palmer. Every single quarterback Bruce coached accomplished amazing feats, stemming constant Pro Bowl and Super Bowl appearances.

The players seem to be ecstatic about Brady’s arrival. One show of appreciation is Chris Godwin giving the #12 jersey to Brady, who has always worn the number. Almost every player went on Instagram to welcome Brady with open arms.

The Buccaneers’ offense will undoubtedly dominate by keeping Mike Evans and Godwin, both of whom were top five in receiving yards last year, along with tight end OJ Howard. A defense centered around Shaquille Barrett, Vita Vea, and Devin White will terrorize the league for years to come.

With his arrival to the Buccaneers, Brady brings not only his physical prowess to the Buccaneers, but also his championship DNA from New England. Brady is still hungry to win, work, and remind people why he is still the G.O.A.T. After a disappointing exit in the first round of last year’s playoffs, Brady wants to win now more than ever.

I think it’s safe to say the sun has finally risen for the Buccaneers.