Los Angeles, CA – May 20, 2025
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, some of the league’s most highly anticipated young talents gathered in Los Angeles for the annual NFLPA Rookie Premiere, an elite event celebrating the official entry of NFL rookies into the professional ranks. Hosted by Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, the weekend was more than just a networking affair — it marked a symbolic rite of passage. Yet, amid the glitz, cameras, and jersey unveilings, NFL legend Tom Brady delivered a subtle but powerful statement that echoed louder than most.
Brady, the most decorated quarterback in NFL history and now a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, has remained closely involved in the early development of this year’s rookie class — particularly keeping a keen eye on quarterbacks Jaxson Dart and Cam Ward, two players who were rumored to be on the Raiders’ radar before the team ultimately passed on them in the draft.
Quiet Presence, Powerful Words
The weekend festivities began with Rubin welcoming rookies and their families to the Intercontinental Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. On Friday, he unveiled the players’ official NFL jerseys, symbolizing the start of their professional journeys. Brady, who has become something of a mentor to young players since his retirement, initially kept his involvement low-key, dropping a simple fire emoji on Rubin’s Instagram post — a subtle nod of approval and encouragement.
But during a private luncheon at Rubin’s residence, the seven-time Super Bowl champion stepped forward with a message that instantly resonated with the next generation of stars.
“Every day of practice is important,” Brady told the rookies, a message captured in a video shared by Rubin. “You know why? Because when I was on the Patriots, and we had 20 years of winning, every day was a big day. I treated a regular game like it was a Super Bowl, so when I got to the Super Bowl, it was just another day for me.”
Brady’s words weren’t just about preparation — they were about mentality, consistency, and legacy, key themes that he believes are crucial for rookies navigating the pressures of the NFL spotlight.
A Personal Message to Shedeur Sanders
One of the more poignant moments of Brady’s involvement came in a quiet, private gesture — a text message he sent to Shedeur Sanders, the former Colorado quarterback who unexpectedly fell to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, ultimately landing with the Cleveland Browns.
“I actually texted Shedeur because I know him very well, and I said, ‘Dude, whatever happens wherever you go, that’s your first day. Day 2 matters more than the draft,’” Brady revealed.
“I was pick No. 199, so who could speak on it better than me? Use it as motivation. You’re gonna get your chances — go take advantage of them.”
Brady’s message, layered with experience and hard-won wisdom, struck a chord with Sanders and likely with every rookie in the room, many of whom are grappling with similar transitions, expectations, and early career uncertainty.
Dart and Ward Draw Interest, but Raiders Look Elsewhere
While quarterbacks Jaxson Dart and Cam Ward showed poise and charisma throughout the weekend — and were seen engaging closely with Raiders brass — Brady’s presence made it clear that he was closely monitoring their development. Though Las Vegas ultimately did not select either quarterback, Brady’s involvement and attention hinted that their journeys are far from over in his eyes.
A source close to the team confirmed that Brady admired both players’ leadership qualities and football IQ, but the franchise is currently committed to building around their existing quarterback room and 2025 first-round centerpiece, running back Ashton Jeanty.
Legacy in the Making
As the NFLPA Rookie Premiere came to a close, it became clear that Tom Brady’s influence on the league’s future isn’t limited to front office decisions or brand partnerships. His presence — whether through a speech, a text, or a sideline interaction — carries weight and meaning.
The 2025 rookie class may have arrived in the league under bright lights, but they leave Los Angeles with something even more valuable: a mindset sharpened by one of the greatest to ever do it.
In Brady’s words, the journey doesn’t start on draft day — it begins the moment you decide to outwork everyone else.
