Tom Brady deals Bill Belichick one final dig as NFL legend announces retirement

02 February 2023 , 09:27

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Tom Brady celebrates a win with former head coach Bill Belichick (Image: Getty Images)

Tom Brady has posted multiple career pictures following his 'final' NFL retirement this week - but not one of them contained former coach Bill Belichick.

The Brady–Belichick era at the New England Patriots is considered one of the great sport dynasties, with the pair considered among the sport's greatest in their respective roles. They worked together from 2001 to 2019, during which time the Patriots played in nine Super Bowls, more than any other NFL franchise, and won six.

But in 2020, then aged 42, Brady joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers the day before his contract was set to expire. The Patriots were left to rue his release, with the iconic quarterback winning a seventh Super Bowl title in his first season.

Brady had been touted to return to the Patriots next season, due to his strong relationship with team owner Robert Kraft. Furthermore his replacement, Mac Jones, endured a difficult season in his old position.

However, a year to the day when he announced he was first stepping away from the sport, Brady confirmed on Wednesday he was retiring for the second and final time. After the announcement, the Patriots issued two classy tweets to their former star, posting three goat emojis when quote tweeting his announcement video.

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Later the day, Brady took to Instagram and posted over 100 pictures of his illustrious career. Numerous family members, coaches, teammates, and opponents were included - but not a single shot of Belichick.

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Relations between the pair have been strained since the tail-end of Brady's time with the Patriots. The now 45-year-old had reportedly wanted a long-term contract to ensure he saw out his career at the franchise, whilst Belichick believed he had other options.

After Brady's initial retirement last year though, the 70-year-old was quick to pay tribute, stating: "I am privileged to have drafted and coached Tom Brady, the ultimate competitor and winner."

Brady spent 20 seasons with the Patriots, and as well as the six Super Bowls he also claimed three MVP awards. After tasting more glory with the Bucs in 2020, he then led the Florida side to the playoffs in his final two seasons.

Fraser Watson