Tom Brady could play in the NFL 'forever' according to former team-mate Rob Gronkowski, although he has suggested a post-playing career for the quarterback.
Brady is still throwing into the endzone aged 45, although he did briefly retire at the start of the year. His initial decision was reversed almost immediately, and it's clear to see his love for the game is still as strong.
Gronkowski won four Super Bowl's with Brady, and the pair shared a special connection out on the field during the 11 seasons they spent together. Therefore, barely anyone knows Brady as well as Gronkowski, and he's claimed that the 45-year-old could play until he was 68.
The former tight end was seen leaving dinner in Los Angeles on Wednesday night, and was asked by Backgrid when he thinks Brady would retire. "That dude's a beast. He can go forever," Gronkowski said, before joking: "He could go to 68!"
NFL fans thought they were saying goodbye to a great when Brady initially retired, but welcomed him back with open arms shortly after. It was expected that Brady would then retire at the end of this season, but it's not gone exactly to plan.
Fans are now speculating that Brady may continue as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are struggling with a record of 6-7, and it may not be the end the 45-year-old is looking for. However, Brady continues to be linked with a future career in broadcasting, with FOX reportedly very keen on hiring him.
Gronkowski also gave his views on Brady switching to TV, with the former NFL star believing that the quarterback is made for the role. "Tom's gonna kill it," Gronkowski added.
"He knows football like no other. He can break down any player at any time. He'll just present it to the screen, showing the strength and weaknesses. He can talk football like no other."
According to Sports Illustrated, Brady is set to become the lead analyst on FOX alongside announcer Kevin Burkhardt when he retires, with a 10-year deal worth a whopping $375million (£308m) reportedly on the table. And Gronkowski thinks that may be the 'best option' once his deal with the Buccaneers expires.
"That would be a great team, to have him here at Fox… That would be a lot of fun," Gronkowski said. "That may be the best option. (When) He’s a free agent, he can weigh out whatever option, whatever team he wants to play for, or if he wants to go in that booth and come join me, we can be the tag team champions of the world."
Gronkowski has already been working for FOX since retiring, and is clearly loving his new life. Brady and Gronkowski may be reunited sooner than imagined, and it would be quite the partnership once again.
