Since Tom Brady and Bruce Arians concluded their time together on the football field, speculation about the dynamics of their relationship has been rampant, particularly after rumors suggested they ceased all communication. Recently, NFL insider Jeff Darlington reignited these discussions by claiming that the former New England Patriots quarterback’s respect for Arians diminished towards the end of their collaboration.
Darlington explained on the show “Get Up” that “When Tom Brady was playing for Bruce Arians, that relationship absolutely got to the point where Brady didn’t have the respect for Arians that he originally did when he first got there.” He added, “Had they lost that first year and did not win the Super Bowl … I don’t think Bruce Arians is the coach the following year. Eventually, Bruce Arians was not the coach.”
These remarks imply that Brady’s dissatisfaction with Arians significantly contributed to the coach’s departure. Although Brady did not have the official authority to hire or fire coaches, his influence within the Tampa Bay Buccaneers organization was considerable, given his status as their most prominent signing ever. The team’s effort to keep their star quarterback satisfied may have led to Arians’ exit, with former New York Jets coach Todd Bowles taking over in Brady’s third season.
The partnership between Brady and Arians began on a high note, as they led the Buccaneers to a Super Bowl victory in their first season together. This achievement not only cemented Brady’s legacy, proving he could win outside of Bill Belichick’s system, but also marked Patrick Mahomes’ only Super Bowl loss to date. Despite their initial success, tensions appeared to mount, resulting in Arians stepping down before Brady’s final season.
Brady continued to play until age 45, leading the Buccaneers to the playoffs in his last season under Todd Bowles. However, his attendance at practices became inconsistent, raising questions about his commitment and relationship with the team. This inconsistency led many to wonder if similar issues plagued his time with Arians.
Ultimately, while the initial collaboration between Brady and Arians brought immediate success, underlying tensions and Brady’s significant influence within the team seem to have contributed to Arians’ departure and possibly affected Brady’s final years in the NFL.
