Ex-NFLer Recalls Amazing Story About When Tom Brady Earned His ‘Utmost Respect’

Patriots quarterback Tom Brady is the greatest player in the league history. But, he is definitely much more than that, and there are so many stories proving his greatness. Brady has defeated a lot of opponents, and he does that with his arms and mind. TB12 has the strong mind in the NFL, and that helped him win six Super Bowls and the respect of everybody.

However, the GOAT hasn’t lasted two decades in the NFL without his physical toughness. Let’s see what does former NFL defensive lineman Chris Canty has to say about this.

In an episode of Barstool Sports; “Surf & Turf” podcast, Canty shared a TB12 story from the 2007 game between the Dallas Cowboys and the New England Patriots. It was in that particular game that Canty realized how strong and tough Brady is.

Canty explained that he came on a zero blitz and hit Brady harder than he’s ever hit any other player on and off the field. He was more than convinced that he has him. The former lineman was sure that Brady won’t get up from that one.

Yes, he thought that he had knocked the GOAT out of the game with his tough blow. Patriots offensive lineman Matt Light helped the quarterback off the turf. Canty watched in amazement as the GOAT got up, shook his head and called up the huddle.

“I came free on a zero blitz,” Canty recalled. ” … I hit Tom Brady harder than I’ve ever hit any human being on or off the field. And I was like, ‘Guys, I got him. … There’s no way he’s getting up from that one.”

According to Canty that moment changed it all. Brady earned his utmost respect. Canty gave him the best shot, and Brady took it in stride and kept doing his thing on the field.

“From that moment on, Tom Brady had my utmost respect,” Canty said. “I knew I gave him my best shot, and he took it in stride and he bounced back.”

Canty is pretty right about the last part. Tb12 threw for 388 yards and five touchdowns in the Patriots’ 48-27 win over Dallas. It was one of 17 wins during the Patriots regular season.

Unfortunately, Brady tore his ACL in Week 1 of the following season, and had to miss the entire 2008 campaign. Aside from his tear, Brady has been pretty tough and durable. He hasn’t missed a game due to an injury outside the 2008 season.

That’s our definition for toughness. Brady is a tough guy, and no player will take him down.