Tom Brady: 'I could play as long as I’m willing to make the commitment'

Two things known for sure about Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady ahead of the summer months are that he un-retired and returned for at least the 2022 season, and also that he'll eventually become FOX Sports' lead NFL analyst whenever he calls time on his playing days via what's been reported to be a 10-year deal worth $375 million. 

Brady remarked back in April that he doesn't "have a lot left" and realizes he's "at the end" of his once-in-a-generation career. On Wednesday, the 44-year-old told "The Dan Patrick Show" he "had the appetite to compete, and it's going to be gone soon," which caused some to believe he's preparing for a so-called "last dance" as an active player. 

Not so fast. 

While recently speaking with Sports Illustrated’s Robin Lundberg (h/t Joseph Salvador), the seven-time Super Bowl champion suggested he has much more in the figurative tank than he's teased. 

"How long could I play? Hypothetically, because I love hypothetical questions, I could play as long as I’m willing to make the commitment to playing," Brady explained. "I don’t think it’s gonna be another five years I’ll say that." 

Brady continued: "I just have too many other things that are happening. My kids are probably the biggest one. They’re not getting any younger and I’ve gotta make sure I’m there for the moments that they need me there for." 

According to the JoeBucsFan website, Brady was asked about potentially remaining the Buccaneers' QB1 through the 2023 season, when they're scheduled to bring their famous "creamsicle" jerseys back. 

"Mmmmmm… never say never," Brady responded. "I don’t know. It’s a good question. I’m going to take it year by year for sure on this. I know we are not wearing them this year but we are wearing them the year after this [2023]. So, we’ll see. We’ll see." 

Brady playing until he turns 50 now seems to be off the table, but it also sounds as if he's not yet ready to embark on a confirmed retirement tour this fall.