Tom Brady Reflects on 'Natural Tension' That Ended Patriots Partnership

The NFL legend confirms long-suspected friction with Bill Belichick and details the decision-making process behind his 2020 departure to Tampa Bay.

Tom Brady revealed in his newsletter that 'natural tension' with Bill Belichick developed over their 20-year partnership, leading to his departure from the Patriots in 2020.
Brady described his decision to leave as a 'creeping' realization over 2-3 years, finalized during a whirlwind few days in March 2020.
He created a list of 20 factors to evaluate his priorities during free agency, ultimately choosing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for their skilled players, coaching, and favorable conditions.
Brady confirmed that diverging career goals and the Patriots' franchise direction were central to the split, a topic long speculated but now directly addressed by the quarterback.
Both Brady and Belichick have moved into new phases of their careers, with Brady reflecting on their shared legacy and Belichick now coaching at the University of North Carolina.