Tom Brady took aim at NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and the Deflategate controversy during his Netflix roast special on Sunday night. Despite Goodell’s absence at the event, Brady joked about how the NFL spent $20 million to investigate the incident and concluded that it was “more probable than not” that Brady was aware of the deflation of footballs. Brady sarcastically suggested that the NFL could have just given him the $20 million, and he would have admitted to the wrongdoing. The joke received a strong positive reaction from the audience, including former teammates Rob Gronkowski, Julian Edelman, Rodney Harrison, and Randy Moss.
The Deflategate scandal in 2015 involved accusations that Brady had ordered the deflation of footballs during the AFC Championship game against the Indianapolis Colts. This led to a four-game suspension for Brady in the following season. Despite the setback, the Patriots still emerged victorious in the playoff game with a 45-7 win, powered by LeGarrette Blount’s impressive performance of 148 rushing yards and three touchdowns, along with three touchdown passes from Brady himself. Following his suspension, Brady went on to win three more Super Bowls, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. He retired as the all-time leader in passing touchdowns and passing yards, with a record-setting seven Super Bowl titles to his name.
The Netflix roast special also included a humorous appearance from Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, who took the opportunity to poke fun at Brady and other former players. Belichick’s appearance added to the lighthearted atmosphere of the event, showcasing the camaraderie between the coach and his former players. The audience, which included a number of NFL legends and fans, enjoyed the comedic banter and shared in the laughter throughout the evening.
Brady’s willingness to address the Deflategate controversy in a joking manner demonstrates his ability to embrace his past struggles and turn them into comedic material. Despite the seriousness of the accusations and suspension he faced, Brady has clearly moved on from the incident and is able to laugh about it now. The support he received from his former teammates and the audience at the roast speaks to the respect and admiration he has earned throughout his career for his talent and success on the football field.
As one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, Tom Brady’s legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments to his ability to connect with fans and fellow players in a lighthearted and humorous way. The Netflix roast special provided a platform for Brady to address past controversies and share some laughs with his peers, showcasing a different side of the athlete known for his competitive drive and focus on the field. The event highlighted the camaraderie and mutual respect among NFL players, even in the midst of good-natured ribbing and playful banter. Brady’s ability to laugh at himself and engage in comedic exchanges with his colleagues further solidifies his status as a beloved figure in the world of professional football.
