Buccaneers' Tom Brady still watches the Patriots 'every week'

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady clearly still has some fondness for the New England Patriots and head coach Bill Belichick.

As Ryan Glasspiegel noted for the New York Post, Brady explained during the latest edition of his "Let's Go!" SiriusXM show and podcast that he watches the Patriots on a weekly basis even though he left them via free agency to sign with the Buccaneers in 2020. 

"Yeah, we had 20 years together of elite football experience that I wouldn’t have traded for anything in the world," Brady told broadcaster Jim Gray about Belichick during Monday's program. "I know he’s a great competitor. What an amazing coach he is, and how he prepares the team to win, and he’s just done it year in and year out. The fact that he’s 22 wins away from [passing Don Shula for first in all-time NFL head coaching wins], I have no doubt he’s gonna get it." 

Brady then spoke about the Patriots. 

"I just watch that team every week, and I’m impressed with how they prepare and the accountability that that organization has had. It always starts at the top," Brady remarked about the club. 

Much was made about the supposed deteriorating relationship between Brady and Belichick after the legendary signal-caller parted ways with his first NFL home from 2000 through the 2019 season. However, Brady recently referred to Belichick as "the greatest coach of all time." 

Brady temporarily retired this past winter but ultimately returned to the Buccaneers to play at least one more campaign. It's unknown if the recently divorced 45-year-old will look to continue his playing career beyond the ongoing season, but he was recently linked with the San Francisco 49ers. Brady grew up a 49ers fan in California.

Meanwhile, Belichick and his staff are likely still trying to determine if Mac Jones is truly a franchise quarterback for the future. Perhaps Brady could become interested in a reunion with the Patriots if Belichick decides this coming offseason he wants to move on from Jones sooner rather than later.