Everyone is curious to see whether or not Tom Brady remains with the New England Patriots, including a former kicker for the Detroit Lions. Ahead of Brady's impending free agency, Jason Hanson joked about Brady breaking his NFL record if he returns to the Patriots:
“I did know it. Nobody cares that I have the record, but now that Tom is close — and ESPN puts it up there — I have friends who take screenshots and they send it to me. And they remind me that I'm about to fade into obscurity,” he joked in a phone interview. “So I'm taking all the accolades for it while it lasts.”
Hanson began his career with the Lions as a second-round pick in the 1992 NFL Draft. While he remained as one of the NFL's most consistent kickers, Hanson would spend 21 seasons in Detroit. By doing so, Hanson became the first player in NFL history to spend 21 seasons with the same franchise.
Article Continues BelowIn a league that involves free agency and trades, it is rare for a player to spend 10 seasons — let alone 21 seasons — with the same team. However, Brady has a chance to tie Hanson for the NFL record for most seasons with the same franchise.
At 42 years old, Brady is going to be testing free agency for the first time in his legendary career. Despite being with the Patriots for 20 years, Brady could choose to end his career elsewhere.
Regardless of what happens, it's safe to say that Hanson will be paying close attention to what Brady decides to do.