Patriots Honor Tom Brady with Larger-Than-Life Statue Outside Gillette Stadium

Published: August 9, 2025, 19:00 EDT

Legendary quarterback celebrated for six Super Bowl wins and 20 years of leadership

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots have immortalized Tom Brady with a massive bronze statue, paying tribute to the quarterback who led the team to six Super Bowl victories and redefined the franchise’s history. The six-ton, 17-foot monument now stands proudly outside Gillette Stadium, symbolizing not only his on-field accomplishments but also his lasting impact on the sport.

Brady, who was famously drafted 199th overall in 2000, returned to Foxborough Friday evening for the unveiling ceremony, held before the Patriots’ exhibition opener against the Washington Commanders. Fans, teammates, and NFL dignitaries gathered to celebrate the career of one of football’s greatest players.

A Monument to a Storied Career

The statue, designed by sculptor and lifelong Patriots fan Jeff Buccacio, features a 12-foot-tall depiction of Brady atop a six-sided granite base — one side for each of the Patriots’ Super Bowl victories during his tenure. The entire structure measures 17 feet, representing the 17 AFC East division titles New England won in Brady’s 19 seasons with the team.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft, speaking at the ceremony, called the moment historic.

“Tom will forever be remembered as the player who transformed this organization,” Kraft said. “It is only fitting he becomes the first player in Patriots history to be honored with a bronze statue outside the stadium.”

Brady, a three-time NFL MVP and five-time Super Bowl MVP, retired in 2023 as the league’s most decorated quarterback. Over his 23-year career — including two seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — he secured seven Super Bowl titles, set NFL records for wins, passing yards, and touchdowns, and became a global icon for the sport.

A Return Filled with Humor and Heart

Brady addressed the crowd with his trademark mix of humility and humor.

“When I was drafted, I just hoped to make the team,” he said. “I never dreamed I’d be standing here 25 years later, made of bronze and frozen in time. Although, given my 40-yard dash speed, maybe it’s pretty accurate.”

In a playful moment, Brady pretended to take a phone call from former coach Bill Belichick, joking that Belichick still thought there was “room for improvement.” He also took a lighthearted jab at longtime rivals, the New York Jets.

“This statue isn’t just for Pats fans. It’ll also give Jets fans something to throw their beers at every year — probably in the second quarter,” he quipped.

A Gathering of Football’s Finest

The ceremony drew an impressive crowd of NFL personalities and fans. Brady’s parents and children were in attendance, along with current Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, former teammates Devin and Jason McCourty, Wes Welker, David Andrews, and Brian Hoyer. Members of the Washington Commanders organization, including general manager Adam Peters and former Patriot Deatrich Wise, also stopped by to witness the moment.

Coach Vrabel reflected on the honor after the Patriots’ 48–18 win over the Commanders.

“Having someone like Tom as part of this organization is truly unique and special,” Vrabel said. “I’m glad I could be here to celebrate it.”

From Long Shot to Legend

Brady’s journey from an overlooked sixth-round draft pick to a global sports icon remains one of the most remarkable stories in NFL history. His leadership, relentless work ethic, and competitive spirit helped transform the Patriots into a dynasty, cementing their place in football history.

In 2023, the Patriots fast-tracked his induction into the team’s Hall of Fame, waiving the standard four-year waiting period. His iconic No. 12 jersey was retired the same day — an honor reserved for the franchise’s most influential figures.

A Lasting Symbol in Foxborough

The statue’s location outside the Patriots’ Hall of Fame and Pro Shop ensures that fans will encounter it on game days and throughout the year. It stands not only as a tribute to Brady’s extraordinary achievements but also as a reminder of the Patriots’ golden era under his leadership.

As fans posed for photos and chanted Brady’s name, the quarterback expressed gratitude for the decades of support.

“This isn’t just my statue,” Brady said. “It belongs to everyone who believed in me — my teammates, coaches, family, and the fans who made Foxborough feel like home.”

For Patriots supporters, the bronze figure is more than just a work of art — it’s a permanent symbol of the winning culture and unforgettable moments Brady brought to New England.

Source: AP News – Patriots unveil statue of Tom Brady, QB who led them to 6 Super Bowl wins, before exhibition opener