We've talked a lot about the right move for Tom Brady. In all those discussions and posts, I don't know that we ever mentioned Tampa Bay.
One explanation of the decision...
The Buccaneers might seem like a weird landing spot for Brady, but it actually make a lot of sense for a lot of reasons, and if you're wondering what those reasons are, you can click here to find out. If you don't feel like clicking, here's a brief summary: They have a lot of offensive weapons, they have a lot of salary cap room to add any piece Brady needs and they have a 67-year-old coach who wants to win now. The next Super Bowl is also being played in Tampa, which would give Brady a chance to do something that no other player has ever done: play a Super Bowl in their home stadium.
The Buccaneers were 7-9 last year. Adding a $30 million, aging quarterback probably isn't going to move the Bucs to Super Bowl contention. The fundamental question is the relative upgrade of Brady versus Winston and the incremental salary cap hit.
Analysts do not talk enough about the salary cap side. Winning in all salary capped sports is about acquiring stars (the magic of being a GM) and efficient roster management (the analytics of being a GM). This does not seem like a Super Bowl winning move. But then again, how many free agent signings result in Super Bowl wins?
What about Brady's decision?
Hard to criticize. He gets a nice paycheck and maybe the team is positioned to make a move up the standings. And there are worse places to play than Tampa.
Does this do much for his legacy / brand? Probably not.
But I have to applaud that. He made a choice about what works for him today rather than chasing an even greater legacy.