Tom Brady is known as one of the greatest American football players of all time, having been to 10 Super Bowls and winning a record 7 of them. But before he was the GOAT, he was the 199th overall draft pick. 25 years ago, Brady was drafted by the New England Patriots, a moment that changed the rest of his life and American football history. Keep reading for more information.
Tom Brady Recalls His First NFL Draft
With the 2025 NFL draft taking place this weekend, people have been reminiscing on drafts of the past, including the NFL itself. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, the organization posted a clip of a young Tom Brady talking about the moment he was drafted as the 199th overall pick and what it meant to him.
“I remember being downstairs for the fourth round and that came and gone and the fifth round, you know, it was coming and going and all these other guys were getting picked,” a long-haired Brady recalled in an interview. “And it was hard. I remember taking a walk with my dad and mom around the block.”
The interviewer then asked Brady what his dad said to him in that moment, at which the quarterback started tearing up, and took a few moments to collect himself before saying, “It was just a tough day.”
25 years ago today, @TomBrady finally heard his name called with the 199th pick.
It was a day he’ll never forget. (via @nflfilms) pic.twitter.com/lVyAc6ukRi
— NFL (@NFL) April 16, 2025
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Social Media Reactions
Replying in the thread of @NFL's tweet, fans shared their appreciation for Brady's career. "From the 199th pick to becoming the GOAT, Tom Brady's journey is the ultimate underdog story that changed NFL history forever," one person wrote. "25 years later, his legacy continues to inspire future generations."
"Turned out to be the Goat," another agreed. "What a legacy."
"Greatest draft pick of all time," added a third.
"Amazing how in the end he's one of the best," another wrote. "Goes to show draft number doesn't always mean anything. Unbelievable!"
