Reports: Tom Brady to sign two-year extension with Patriots that makes him sixth-highest-paid QB in 2019
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Will Tom Brady play until he’s 45 years old? Well, he’s at least shooting for 44. Brady is signing a two-year contract extension with the Patriots that will keep him signed through the 2021 season.
Filed to ESPN: the Patriots and QB Tom Brady are close to finalizing an agreement on a contract extension, per league source. Should be done soon.
That makes Brady the sixth-highest paid quarterback in the NFL this season. However, Schefter Tom Brady’s two-year extension takes him through the 2021 season, but the deal will be adjusted each year he continues playing, per source. It will pay him $23 million this season - an $8 million boost over what he was scheduled to make.
Brady turned 42 years old on Saturday. He’s famously said repeatedly in the later stages of his career that he wants to play until 45. But clearly, he’s willing to take it year-to-year with the Pats from here on out.
Reality should start setting in now: any season could be Brady’s last.
Feb 3, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) celebrates with daughter Vivian after beating the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
The good news, though, is that the Patriots have built a Super Bowl-caliber roster around Brady. Their depth on defense, the offensive line, and in the running game make them one of the elite rosters in the NFL.
They may have a little more work to do at wide receiver and tight end. But if first-rounder N’Keal Harry turns into a high-end weapon for Brady, they’ll be in good shape there too. There’s at least upside to depend on at that spot.
Brady should have enough of a team around him for the next three years. We’ll see how capable he is of adding to his Super Bowl ring collection, and how long he wants to keep going for them.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
