Goodell hails Brady as 'incredible competitor and leader'

Tom Brady Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell hails Tom Brady as 'incredible competitor and leader' following retirement announcement

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 2/1/22

Legendary New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady officially announced his retirement on Tuesday morning after 22 NFL seasons. Minutes later, countless congratulatory messages and lengthy anecdotes began flooding the internet.

Among those reflecting on Brady's impact on the game was NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

A statement from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on the retirement of Tom Brady. pic.twitter.com/jkuDjeRVjE
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 1, 2022

"Tom made everyone around him better and always seemed to rise to the occasion in the biggest moments," Goodell wrote in part in the press release. "His record five Super Bowl MVP awards and seven Super Bowl championships set a standard that players will chase for years."

The commissioner went on to say that the impact of No. 12 was felt worldwide.

"He inspired fans in New England, Tampa and around the world with one of the greatest careers in NFL history," Goodell added. "It has been a privilege to watch him compete and have him in the NFL. We thank him for his many contributions to our game and wish Tom and his family all the best in the future."

Brady's supposed decision on retirement had initially been reported on Saturday, but the "GOAT" didn't commit to the announcement until Tuesday.

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