"If you f**k around...": Tom Brady reveals the one brutal truth from his NFL career that challenges his perfect GOAT image

Tom Brady may have walked away with seven Super Bowl rings and a GOAT status, but not without a cost. In a candid and surprising revelation, Brady recently admitted that the physical punishment he endured during his two-decade NFL career—especially from one player—still haunts him.

During a light-hearted moment in his YouTube series, Brady shared that his shoulder pain today traces back to a hit from Hall of Famer Ray Lewis in the 2009 AFC Wild Card game.

Tom Brady reveals the career truth no one saw coming

Tom Brady’s comment, “That guy is still responsible for the shoulder pain I have,” might have been said with a smile, but the reality behind it is no joke. The 2009 AFC Wild Card game between the Patriots and the Ravens saw Lewis and Ed Reed deliver two brutal early sacks to Brady.

It was one of the few times the Ravens came out on top against him—and it left a lasting impression.

According to Brady, the intensity and brutality of defenders like Lewis altered the way he approached football from that point forward. “When you’re getting hit, there’s a discipline with your physical body that you need to take into account,” Brady admitted. “Because if you f**k around, you’re gonna get hurt. You don’t mess around with your training, because you will pay the price.”

His respect for Ray Lewis was made clear when he revealed that Lewis topped the list of players he feared getting hit by the most. The pain wasn’t just physical—it shaped his mindset, recovery habits, and how he prepared himself to take the field, season after season.

But, Tom Brady showed the world who he is with passion and dedication

Despite that physical toll, Brady’s NFL career spanned an unmatched 23 seasons. His longevity wasn't just about avoiding hits; it was about building a body capable of surviving them.

While his clean diet and strict lifestyle helped, it’s clear that fear of defenders like Lewis and Aaron Donald played a pivotal role in keeping him motivated in both the gym and the film room.Since retiring, Brady’s momentum hasn’t slowed. He’s now a lead football analyst at Fox Sports, co-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, a stakeholder in CardVault, and the proud owner of his E1 Series electric boat racing team, Team Brady.Brady's reflections remind fans that even legends carry battle scars. His words are a compelling testament to what it truly takes to survive—and dominate—in the brutal world of professional football.Also Read: Shedeur Sanders proves he’s more than Deion’s son after brutal ESPY insult by Shane Gillis

FAQs

1. How many Super Bowl rings does Tom Brady have?Tom Brady holds a record seven Super Bowl rings, the most by any player in NFL history.2. Is Tom Brady part-owner of any NFL team?Yes, Tom Brady owns a minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders.3. What businesses is Tom Brady involved in after retirement?A: Post-retirement, Brady is involved with Fox Sports, CardVault, and his E1 electric boat racing team, Team Brady.