Tom Brady Immortalized in Bronze: Statue Unveiled at Gillette Stadium
Foxborough, MA – In a ceremony brimming with fanfare, New England Patriots legend Tom Brady was honored with a bronze statue outside Gillette Stadium on Friday, August 9, 2024, ahead of the team’s preseason game against the Washington Commanders. The unveiling celebrated Brady’s unparalleled 20-year career with the Patriots, marking a important moment for the franchise and its devoted fanbase.
The statue, commissioned by Patriots owner Robert Kraft, depicts Brady in his iconic throwing pose. Standing at an notable 17 feet tall – a nod to the Patriots’ 17 AFC Championship titles won during his tenure – and 12 feet from base to head,referencing his jersey number,the monument is strategically positioned to greet fans as they approach the stadium.
Kraft, visibly moved during the ceremony, spoke of Brady’s impact on the Patriots organization and the city of New England. “Tom didn’t just win games; he built a dynasty,” Kraft stated. “This statue is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and the joy he brought to millions.”
Brady, who turned 47 on August 3rd, accepted the honor with characteristic grace and a touch of his signature wit.He playfully acknowledged the intense rivalry with the New York Jets,quipping,”This statue is not only for Patriots fans. It will give Jets fans a yearly target to throw their beers at as they leave the stadium, problably around the second quarter!” The crowd erupted in laughter, appreciating the good-natured jab.
This marks the first time a player has been honored with a statue outside of Gillette Stadium itself. Brady led the Patriots to six super bowl victories (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX, XLIX, LI, and LIII) and was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2023. He retired from the NFL in Febuary 2023 after a brief stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he added another Super Bowl title to his resume (LV).
The statue was sculpted by renowned artist Tom Corbin, known for his dynamic and lifelike bronze figures. The project took over a year to complete, with Corbin working closely with the Patriots organization and Brady himself to ensure an accurate and fitting tribute.
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Looking Ahead: The unveiling of the Tom Brady statue solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history and provides a lasting landmark for Patriots fans for generations to come. The statue is expected to become a popular destination for visitors to Foxborough, further cementing the Patriots’ place in New England’s cultural landscape.
