Tom Brady Says He’s Leaving the Patriots After 20 Seasons

Tom Brady of the New England Patriots celebrating after the Patriots defeated the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas on Feb. 5, 2017. (Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Longtime New England Patriots quarterback and six-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady announced he is leaving the Patriots after 20 seasons.

The move follows months of speculation and rumors as Brady was slated to become a free agent. Brady indicated that he is willing to play for another team and did not signal retirement.

“Although my football journey will take place elsewhere,” Brady wrote on Instagram. “I appreciated everything that we have achieved and am grateful for our incredible TEAM accomplishments. I have been privileged to have had the opportunity to know each and every one of you, and to have the memories we’ve created together.”

In a Twitter post, Brady thanked the Patriots and wrote, “Although my football journey will take me elsewhere, I appreciate everything that we have achieved and am grateful for our incredible team accomplishments.”

He did not say where is would like to play next.

“l don’t know what my football future holds,” he added, “but it is time for me to open a new stage for my life and career.”

Brady leaves New England leading the franchise in most quarterback categories including touchdowns, games, and passing yards. He was drafted after being selected 199th overall by the team in the 2000 NFL draft.

He also thanked longtime coach Bill Belichick and Patriots owner Robert Kraft.

Brady, 42, is also a four-time Super Bowl MVP and three-time MVP. Last year, Brady said he wants to play in the NFL until he’s 45.