Tom Brady immortalized in bronze before Friday's game

After devoting an entire evening to Tom Brady last year, the Patriots brought the greatest quarterback of his generation back before tonight's preseason opener to unveil a gigantic statue of the future NFL Hall of Famer. It was a reminder of what once was when, let's face it, nobody had it better than fans of this football team.

"I wanted the statue to be larger than life, just like Tommy is," said owner Robert Kraft at tonight's ceremony.

It is. The 17-foot bronze sculpture depicts Brady with his right fist raised in the air, celebrating. It wasn't from one specific moment, but rather a scene that played out multiple times a week for two decades. Sculptor Jeff Buccacio of Natick, was commissioned to do the work, and it is estimated to have taken over 20,000 hours by him and his team. 

"First time in my life Boston sportswriters will describe me as chiseled," joked Brady.*

Several times, both before and during the proceedings, the large and adoring crowd broke out into chants of "Brady, Brady." At least four helicopters hovered above the scene, which was also broadcast inside the stadium and press box for everyone to see. 

Not only were Brady's parents in attendance, but a slew of former teammates, including Mike Vrabel, Tedy Bruschi, and members of the Commanders team: Wes Welker, Larry Izzo, Jon Jones, Deatrich Wise, and Deebo Samuel. They were all touched by the hard-driving quarterback.

"People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel," noted Kraft, leaning on Maya Angelou's famous quote.

"As RKK just said it perfectly...right now, I feel extremely honored, deeply grateful, and if I'm being honest, kind of old."

Brady maintained that humorous tone throughout his short speech, at one point pretending to take a phone call from Bill Belichick, and later jabbing an AFC East rival.

"In the end, this statue isn't just for Pats fans," he said. "it will give Jets fans something to throw their beer at as they leave the stadium - probably in the second quarter. Maybe the third."

While Brady has now been immortalized for life, he reminded all those watching and listening that this night wasn't possible without the efforts of so many others. 

"I said this before, but I will say it again: I'm humbled and honored to be part of this organization for 20 years. For that, I am forever grateful," Brady said.. "I hope I've given to you as much as you've given to me. Thank you, New England, I love you. Let's get ready to kick off the 2025 NFL season. LET'S GO!"