In a stunning revelation, the San Francisco 49ers were on the verge of signing legendary quarterback Tom Brady in 2023. Head coach Kyle Shanahan admitted that he seriously considered bringing the 7-time champion on board to chase his eighth Super Bowl ring. Shanahan’s decision was motivated by the uncertainty surrounding his current quarterback, Brock Purdy, who was recovering from an elbow injury sustained during the NFC Championship Game in January 2023.
Shanahan expressed his concern about Purdy’s readiness for the start of the 2023 season, given his ongoing recovery from surgery. With Brady becoming a free agent after retiring from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on February 1, 2023, Shanahan saw an opportunity to secure a seasoned veteran to lead the team for one year. The coach saw this as a way to both compliment Purdy and provide him with the chance to learn from one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
However, Shanahan emphasized that if Purdy hadn’t been injured, the idea of signing Brady wouldn’t have even crossed his mind. He wanted to assure Purdy that he was the long-term quarterback for the team. Nonetheless, the coach had to consider the team’s overall well-being and the possibility that Purdy might not be fully ready by September.
Ultimately, Purdy made a remarkable recovery and delivered an MVP-caliber season, leading the 49ers on an impressive Super Bowl run. Meanwhile, Brady remained retired, setting his sights on a future broadcasting career with FOX. Although the signing didn’t come to fruition, the potential of Brady joining the 49ers created a buzz and showcased Shanahan’s dedication to his team’s success.
BRADY ADDRESSES 49ERS RUMORS AHEAD OF SUPER BOWL
In a recent interview on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Tom Brady spoke out about the rumors linking him to the San Francisco 49ers. Despite the speculation, Brady revealed that he remained focused on his own goals throughout the season.
Reflecting on the past year, Brady expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to observe and learn. He even hinted at the possibility of joining the Fox booth next year. While he acknowledged the success of current 49ers quarterback Purdy, Brady emphasized his own dedication and desire to prove himself.
A POTENTIAL MATCH MADE IN FOOTBALL HEAVEN
Had Brady ended up with the 49ers, it would have been a surprising turn of events, similar to Bill Belichick becoming head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. The connection between the two situations lies in the infamous Super Bowl comeback victory by the New England Patriots in 2017.
At the time, Kyle Shanahan, now the 49ers head coach, served as the Falcons defensive coordinator. He witnessed Brady dismantle the Falcons secondary, leading to a stunning 34-28 overtime win. Shanahan, while admitting the pain of the loss, also acknowledged the strength gained from such experiences.
THE FUTURE OF BRADY AND THE 49ERS
As the NFL season progresses, it remains to be seen what the future holds for Brady and the 49ers. Both parties have their own goals and aspirations, and only time will tell if their paths will cross. Until then, football fans can only speculate and eagerly await the next chapter in this intriguing story.
Matthew Davis is a sports reporter covering the NFL. Stay connected for more updates and news.
