Tom Brady’s legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history continues to shape the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, even years after his retirement. Although Brady officially stepped away from football in 2023 after a 23-year career, his influence on the Buccaneers remains evident in both tangible and intangible ways.
Tom Brady’s Influence Still Shapes Tampa Bay’s Future
Brady may have retired, but his presence in Tampa Bay continues to guide the franchise. The latest example of his lasting impact is wide receiver Chris Godwin’s decision to stay with the Buccaneers despite receiving a more lucrative offer elsewhere.
According to general manager Jason Licht, Godwin turned down an additional $20 million to remain with the team, underscoring the culture Brady helped establish. The Buccaneers recently secured Godwin on a three-year, $66 million deal, ensuring stability in their receiving corps. Licht, speaking to WDAE, acknowledged Godwin’s loyalty.
“There were several teams that inquired, but there was one that kept writing him blank checks. We got to a ͏point of what we could do in order ͏to͏ keep everything together͏ and add some pieces here͏, and he took͏ it,” Licht said.
Brady’s influence on Tampa Bay extends beyond statistics and a Super Bowl victory. His leadership set a new standard of excellence, fostering a winning mindset that has shaped player retention and team-building decisions even after his departure. The Buccaneers’ ability to keep key players like Godwin is a testament to the franchise culture Brady helped build.
Godwin, who has been with Tampa Bay since 2017, has developed into one of the team’s top offensive weapons. He played a crucial role in the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl 55 run and posted three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons from 2021-23. He was on pace to make it four before suffering a season-ending injury in November 2024.
Despite a setback last season — when he played only seven games before a dislocated ankle ended his campaign — the Buccaneers prioritized securing him long-term.
The decision to retain Godwin without using the franchise tag for a third time signals a shift in Tampa Bay’s roster management, a philosophy Brady helped instill. Even with salary cap constraints, the organization remains committed to maintaining a competitive core rather than continuously restructuring short-term deals.
Licht emphasized the value of having͏ a player like Godwin. “[Godwin is] a man of character. We’re so fortunate to have him.” His͏ willingness to take less money to stay ͏signals the͏ strength of ͏the Buccaneers’͏ ͏culture, one that remains influenced by the legendary quarterback ͏who changed the franchise forever.
Though Brady is no longer under center, his legacy continues to shape Tampa Bay’s decisions, proving that his impact extends well beyond his years on the field.