Tom Brady officially stopped playing football on February 1, 2023, when he announced his retirement at age 45 after 23 seasons in the NFL. This decision marked the end of the most decorated quarterback era in modern sports history.
Below is a detailed overview of his final season, key dates, and the context around his departure from the game.
| Event | Date | Team | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Final Season Begins | September 8, 2022 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Brady started his 23rd season and final regular season under new head coach Todd Bowles. |
| Last Regular Season Game | January 8, 2023 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Started but exited early with an injury, marking his final competitive appearance. |
| Retirement Announcement | February 1, 2023 | Free Agent | Posted via his The Players' Tribune and confirmed on social media, ending months of speculation. |
| Hall of Fame Induction | August 6, 2023 | Personal | Officially inducted, recognizing his unprecedented on-field achievements. |
Final 2022 Season Performance
In his last season, Brady balanced veteran leadership with on-field production, guiding the Buccaneers to a competitive 8-9 record. Although the team missed the playoffs, he remained the central figure in a young roster.
Key Stats in 2022
Brady completed 379 of 596 passes for 4,210 yards, 31 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, demonstrating consistent accuracy despite limited mobility.
Injury and Game Exit Details
During the final regular season game against the Carolina Panthers, Brady exited in the third quarter with a rib injury. Initially listed as questionable, he informed the team and the league that he would not return, a sign that his playing days were coming to a close.
Medical Context
The rib and shoulder discomfort reflected the physical toll of decades at an elite level, making continued play unsustainable even with his renowned durability.
Transition to Broadcasting and Business
After retiring, Brady joined Fox Sports as a game analyst and expanded his ownership portfolio in franchises and lifestyle brands. This shift highlights his long-term plan to stay influential in football and entertainment beyond his playing years.
Media and Professional Roles
As an analyst and entrepreneur, Brady leverages his football expertise to provide insights while building ventures that extend his brand into media, finance, and sports ownership.
Historical Legacy and Records
With seven Super Bowl wins, four Super Bowl MVP awards, and three NFL MVP honors, Brady redefined quarterback excellence and longevity in professional football. His departure reshapes the narrative of the modern NFL.
Major League Milestones
Brady holds records for postseason wins, passer rating titles, and consecutive seasons with a winning record, setting benchmarks that may stand for generations.
Key Takeaways
- Officially retired on February 1, 2023 after a 23-season NFL career.
- Played his final game on January 8, 2023 due to injury.
- Transitioned into media and business while maintaining a historic legacy.
- Set records and redefined quarterback longevity in professional football.
- Continues to influence football through analysis and entrepreneurial ventures.
FAQ
Reader questions
When exactly did Tom Brady stop playing football?
Tom Brady stopped playing football on February 1, 2023, when he publicly announced his retirement after the 2022 season.
What caused his final game injury?
He suffered a rib and shoulder injury in the final regular season game, which led to his decision not to return and ultimately to retire shortly after.
Did he play any games in the 2023 season after retiring?
No, he did not play any games in 2023, as his retirement was effective immediately after his announcement in February 2023.
What is he doing now that he is no longer playing football?
He works as a broadcaster for Fox Sports, builds his business portfolio, and remains involved in charitable and family-focused ventures.