Tom Brady is one of the most successful quarterbacks in the modern-day NFL, but even with his accomplishments, the New England Patriots leader can take time to acknowledge just how blessed he truly is.
Speaking to WEEI per CSNNE, Brady took time to reflect on his five consecutive appearances in the AFC Championship game, and 10 overall:
"It's beyond what I'd ever imagined in my wildest dreams," Brady said. "I remember the first one I ever participated in, which was in Pittsburgh. We had to fly there on a Friday. I missed Friday of practice so I could do a press conference at the site of the game. It was the first time it really felt like, wow, this is a big deal.
"Fifteen years later, to be a part of 10 of those, I never imagined that any of this was ever even possible. I just knew that I loved the game, and I played with so many great teammates who have, like I said, sacrificed so much. When you play with teammates like I have and you see what they go through over the course of the season, what they deal with in their lives personally, how that reacts to them professionally, kind of the blood, sweat and tears you put into it, you never take it for granted."
And it seems fitting that after all these years, Brady will duel with Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning on Sunday in what could be the former Indianapolis Colts gunslinger's last game as a pro.
Brady is eying his fifth Super Bowl victory if the Patriots make it past the Broncos to match up against the Arizona Cardinals or Carolina Panthers.
