Why Has Tom Brady Turned Against The Patriots? Calls It A 'Closed Book' Ahead Of New NFL Roles

Tom Brady's comment on not having a 'dog in the fight' has left everyone stunned. Now the internet is abuzz with specualtions about why the former football quarterback turned his back on the Patriots.

By Juhi Sharma Last Updated: Feb 6, 2026 | 14:04:26 IST

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Tom Brady, born Thomas Edward Patrick Brady Jr., is an American former professional football quarterback who played in the National Football League for 23 seasons. He spent his first 20 seasons with the New England Patriots and was a central contributor to the franchise's dynasty from 2001 to 2019. His lengthy history with the Patriots is the reason why his remark about the NFL Super Bowl has left everyone stunned. According to reports, the former QB has alleged that he doesn't have a "dog in the game". So, let's take a look at why the much-loved football player has now turned against his own team.

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What did Tom Brady say about supporting a team in the NFL Super Bowl 2026?

For over 20 years, Tom Brady was the soul of the New England Patriots, building his legacy with the franchise, which eventually resulted in the team winning six Super Bowl championships. However, his recent comment during an appearance on the Let's Go! podcast has left everyone shocked. The NFL star's comment about remaining impartial during the game has created intense waves online. Brady explained that while he was once associated with the Patriots, he's in a different phase of his life now. He was quoted as saying:

"Look, I don't have a dog in the fight in this one. May the best team win. And in terms of the Patriots, this is a new chapter in New England. And I'm glad everyone has embraced the Mike Vrabel regime, all the amazing players that have worked so hard to get their club to this position. We did it for 20 years. There was a little bit of a hiatus in there, but the Patriots are back and it's a very exciting time for everyone in New England."

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Why has Tom Brady turned against the Patriots in the NFL Super Bowl?

While Tom Brady's comment has left fans shocked, they are now wondering what the reason might be. Well, there are a couple of reasons that may have contributed to Brady's changed notion towards the team he spent two decades with. According to reports, Tom Brady has a conflict of interest when it comes to supporting the Patriots, as the former QB is a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. 

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Speculation is that the Las Vegas Raiders are also set to hire the Seahawks' offensive coordinator, Klint Kubiak, as their next head coach. While there is no confirmation on this, publicly cheering against the Seahawks would mean rooting against his own future head coach, which could once again be a conflict of interest for the former QB. 

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Tom Brady's new role in the NFL has contributed to his neutral mindset

Another reason cited for Brady's distance from the Patriots could be his new roles in the NFL. According to reports, Tom Brady currently serves as the lead analyst for Fox Sports, which means he needs to remain objective toward the teams rather than letting his personal connections take over. It's being said that Brady might have opted to keep a neutral mindset for the same reason. 

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Tom Brady previously called his tenure with the Patriots a 'closed book'

Tom Brady also commented on how he was in a completely different phase of his life now. While he admitted he had a great run with the Patriots, he said it was now closed. He added that he is now in a space where he roots for 'relationships' rather than any specific teams. He was quoted as saying:

"Michigan, and then I was with the Patriots for 20 years. I was with Tampa for three amazing years. I've been in broadcasting; now I'm an owner of the Raiders. I really want to sit back as a fan and enjoy the game, enjoy the moment. And I always think, may the best team win. It's not going to be who I'm cheering for or who I think is going to win; it's going to be decided by the people out there on the field."

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The Patriots team members bash Tom Brady for his remark

While Tom Brady intended to remain neutral, it struck a nerve with Patriots supporters and even team members. Bill Simmons took to his social media account and expressed his dismay and said, "There's a statue of Tom Brady outside the stadium where the Patriots play. Seems relevant...guess he doesn't remember that." Former teammate, Rob Gronkowski, also joined the chatter and said:

"At the end of the day, if you’re a Patriot for life, you know what it is. Don’t give me that political bull crap, that’s just what it is. If you don’t think we’re gonna win, just pick Seattle then. Don’t straddle the fence."

What are your thoughts on Tom Brady's stance on the Patriots and being a neutral party in Super Bowl 2026?

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