Tom Brady, known for his competitive edge and unparalleled success on the football field, is now making waves in the broadcasting booth. During a Sunday, September 15, 2024 game between the Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints, the seven-time Super Bowl champion offered a candid and harsh assessment of Cowboys rookie wide receiver Jalen Brooks. Brooks’ costly slip during a crucial play led to an interception, and Brady didn’t hold back when asked if he would target Brooks again in that situation.
“Not today,” Brady said. “It’s actually pretty tough to go back there. You know where he’s at, and you’re saying, ‘I’m going to him, and I just can’t count on him that he’s going to stay on his feet.’”
This blunt comment was just one of several during Brady’s second week as a FOX Sports broadcaster, as he settles into his new role. After receiving mixed reviews for his debut performance, where his nerves were apparent, Brady showed a more comfortable and confident side this week, delivering the brutally honest insights fans have long anticipated.
The play occurred in the second quarter, with the Cowboys trailing 28-13 and desperately needing a comeback. Quarterback Dak Prescott targeted Brooks, but the rookie receiver slipped on his route, allowing the Saints to intercept the ball.
The interception proved to be a turning point in the game. The Saints took advantage of the turnover and scored another touchdown, extending their lead to 35-13 by halftime. Brooks, a seventh-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, had struggled throughout the game, contributing to the Cowboys’ woes. Although he did manage to catch a pass later in the game, the damage had already been done.
Brady’s critique of Brooks resonated with fans and commentators alike. Many praised his willingness to speak his mind and offer genuine insights rather than sugarcoating his analysis. “That’s why Tom is Tom and he’s the best to ever do it,” one fan commented on social media. “He could give a [expletive] about you and your confidence; he’s there to win a game.”
However, not everyone agreed with Brady’s tough love. Some viewers argued that building confidence in young players, particularly rookies like Brooks, is crucial for their development. Still, it was clear that Brady’s no-nonsense approach had left a mark on those watching. His commentary highlighted the fine line between building trust in a player and ensuring that trust translates into consistent on-field performance.
Brooks’ blunder wasn’t the only issue plaguing the Cowboys in their 44-19 loss to the Saints. The team’s defense, which had been stellar in Week 1, faltered badly, allowing the Saints to score touchdowns on all five of their first-half possessions. While Prescott did his best to keep the game competitive, the combination of defensive lapses and offensive mistakes proved too much to overcome. Brady acknowledged Prescott’s efforts, saying that the quarterback was playing at an All-Pro level despite the circumstances. “He’s done everything in his power to keep the Cowboys within striking distance,” Brady remarked, defending Prescott’s performance against potential criticism.
Brady’s insightful commentary is part of his $375 million agreement with FOX Sports, a decade-long contract that makes him one of the highest-paid sports broadcasters ever. While he acknowledged feeling nervous during his first appearance, Brady conveyed enthusiasm for his new position, noting that it’s an enjoyable experience with room for improvement as he continues to learn.