NFL

Tom Brady has a big problem with ‘selfish’ generation of young athletes

Tom Brady wants football to be about “we” and not “me.”

Brady appeared on the “DeepCut with VicBlends” podcast earlier this month, and highlight clips are still making their way out.

The seven-time Super Bowl champion quarterback provided an illustration of the generational gap as compared with the players who have come up with smartphones and social media.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) reacts after the game against the Seattle Seahawks during an NFL International Series game at Allianz Arena.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) reacts after the game against the Seattle Seahawks during an NFL International Series game at Allianz Arena. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports/Sipa

“I think the biggest problem with a lot of f–king kids these days, it’s all about them,” Brady said. “Their brand, their social media. When it’s about ‘me’ and then not about ‘us,’ well there’s no way to succeed as a team if all you’re doing is thinking how selfish it is for you to get the attention.”

The barber responded, “It’s cool to show the world how great you are, but the most inspiring thing is how great you can make others.”

Brady agreed.

“That’s the point of life,” he added. “Is what we could do — How do you help other people finish the race?”

Elsewhere in the podcast, the 46-year-old Brady teased the idea of a comeback after a year away from football.

Brady, who is slated to begin his broadcasting career alongside Kevin Burkhardt on the top Fox Sports NFL announce team, was asked if he would “pick up the phone” should a starting quarterback go down late in the season.

“I’m not opposed to it,” Brady said, with a grin, noting that it might not be permitted by the league if he has been approved for a minority ownership stake in the Raiders.

Tom Brady announces the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award during the Laureus World Sports Awards  at GalerÃa De Cristal on April 22, 2024 in Madrid, Spain.
Tom Brady announces the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award during the Laureus World Sports Awards at Galeria De Cristal on April 22, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. Getty Images for Laureus

“But I don’t know … I’m always going to be in good shape, always be able to throw the ball. So, to come in for a little bit, like (Michael Jordan) coming back, I don’t know if they’d let me, but I wouldn’t be opposed to it.”