by Tom Brady’s Unlikely Rise to Legendary Status
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When the New England Patriots selected Tom Brady with the 199th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft, very few could have predicted the incredible career that would unfold over the next two decades. Brady had shown promise in his college career at the University of Michigan, but he was far from a can’t-miss prospect. Measuring in at a modest 6’4″ and 225 pounds, Brady lacked the physical attributes of a prototypical franchise quarterback. He would have to rely on his intangibles, work ethic, and mental strength to succeed at the NFL level. But even Brady himself could not have envisioned the seven Super Bowl rings and countless records that would cement his status as the greatest of all time.
His journey was not without its challenges though, especially in those early years still finding his footing in the league. Leaving his hometown of San Mateo, California to play across the country in Foxborough, Massachusetts meant trading sunny beaches for cold, snowy winters. It meant being thousands of miles from his family and friends as a young man starting his professional career. The adjustment was not easy, and Brady likely battled feelings of homesickness like any other person in his situation. Music may have provided an emotional outlet and source of comfort during those lonesome times away from the California lifestyle he knew growing up.
One song that no doubt stirred memories of home for Brady was “California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & the Papas. Released in 1965, the wistful ballad paints an idyllic picture of the Golden State with its imagery of “ministers, sons, they were talkin’ to daughters” and “all the leaves are brown.” For Brady pining for San Mateo, this classic hit could have served as a musical escape, allowing him to mentally transport back to the sun-soaked beaches and laidback vibe of his youth just by listening to its familiar melody and lyrics. Visualizing that California dreamin’ may have provided solace during New England’s dreary, snow-filled winters.
Another song that likely resonated was Simon & Garfunkel’s “Homeward Bound.” Released the same year in 1965, its melancholy folk sound and introspective lyrics perfectly capture the feeling of longing for home. With lines like “I think I see the light comin’ to me, seems like most times I’ve been lonely too long” and “I’m lookin’ for a lover who won’t blow my cover, she’s just the girl for me and I want all the world to see we’ve got a lovin’ thing,” Brady may have found catharsis in the song’s ability to put his own homesick emotions into words. Especially in those beginning years adjusting to life away from his California roots, “Homeward Bound” could have been a source of solace and comfort.
As Brady settled into his role as the Patriots’ starting quarterback, he may have also drawn inspiration from Neil Diamond’s 1969 hit “Sweet Caroline.” Though not directly about homesickness, its themes of perseverance, pride in one’s hometown, and communal celebration translated well to Brady’s football journey. By the time “Sweet Caroline” became a staple at Fenway Park and a rallying cry for Boston sports fans, Brady was well on his way to becoming a beloved figure in New England. Perhaps hearing tens of thousands of voices belting the song’s familiar refrain of “So good! So good! So good!” helped Brady feel a sense of belonging and acceptance in his new football home, even if California would always hold a special place in his heart.
Overcoming Adversity
While music provided an emotional outlet, Brady’s ability to overcome homesickness and thrive professionally stemmed from his relentless work ethic and competitive fire. After beginning his Patriots career as a backup, Brady was thrust into the starting role in 2001 when Drew Bledsoe went down with an injury. He made the most of his opportunity, leading New England to an improbable Super Bowl victory over the St. Louis Rams. It was the first of many incredible performances that helped cement Brady as one of the all-time greats.
His rise was not without adversity though. In 2002, Brady struggled with injuries and the Patriots finished 9-7, missing the playoffs for the only time during his 20-year tenure. Critics wondered if his previous season was just a fluke. But Brady responded by leading the Pats back to the Super Bowl in 2003, this time defeating the Carolina Panthers for his second championship. It was the first of four Super Bowl appearances over the next eight years, establishing Brady and Bill Belichick’s Patriots dynasty as one of the most dominant stretches in NFL history.
Through it all, Brady never lost his underdog mentality and workmanlike approach, attributes that helped him overcome any self-doubt or feelings of homesickness. He spent endless hours studying film, practicing, and perfecting his craft to stay at the top of his game. Off the field, Brady embraced his role as a leader and embraced New England culture, from his affinity for lobster rolls to sporting a thick Boston accent. Over time, the California kid transformed into a true son of New England, even if the siren’s call of the Golden State never fully left his soul.
Music continued playing a role in Brady’s career well beyond those early homesick days too. Songs like “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne and “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes became pregame pump-up anthems that he credited with helping get him into a “zone” mentally. His playlists over the years also reflected the wide range of musical tastes he picked up from teammates over two decades in the locker room. But it’s no doubt that classic California-inspired songs like “California Dreamin'” held a special nostalgic power that stayed with Brady throughout his legendary NFL journey.
Legacy of Greatness
Now in his mid-40s, Brady is still playing at an elite level into his third decade in the league, further cementing his status as the greatest of all time. After 20 historic seasons and six Super Bowl rings with New England, he took his talents to south Florida prior to the 2020 season, joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in an unexpected move. But Brady proved once again that he is not defined by team affiliations – only his relentless will to win and penchant for coming through in the clutch.
In his first season with the Bucs, Brady led Tampa Bay to an improbable Super Bowl victory over the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs. At age 43, he became the oldest quarterback to ever win a Super Bowl and added yet another championship trophy to his overflowing case. His Bucs tenure is now up to two Super Bowl rings in just two seasons, further padding what is assuredly a first-ballot Hall of Fame career.
Through it all, Brady has never lost his underdog mentality and competitive fire, traits that helped him overcome any self-doubt or homesickness during those early years establishing himself in New England. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, mental toughness, and refusing to accept limits placed upon him by critics or expectations. While California will always hold a special place in Brady’s heart, he has cemented his legacy as an all-time great and true son of football. Even the GOAT needed an emotional outlet now and then though, and classic songs likely provided comfort and inspiration during Brady’s incredible, unlikely journey from 199th pick to seven-time champion.
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