Tom Brady’s story stands as one of the most remarkable in the history of American sports. Selected in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft — 199th overall — he defied all expectations to become, undeniably, the greatest football player of all time.
In an interview for the “IMPAULSIVE” podcast, Brady opened up about what went through his mind after being selected so late in the draft and how he used that moment as motivation to overcome every obstacle ahead.
Brady Talks About the Motivation of Being the 199th Pick in the Draft
A draft-day slide can impact a player’s mindset in many ways. While some experience it as a crushing blow, others channel the disappointment into motivation — using it as a turning point to reflect, grow, and identify exactly where they need to improve in their journey.
In an interview, host Logan Paul asked Brady if being selected so late in the draft ever discouraged him. The former New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback explained that it did the opposite — it shaped his mindset.
“It was one of the most important things that happened in my career too. And I think in some ways it defines a great story, but also, I had different challenges that I had to overcome over a long period of time, and that was one of them,” Brady explained.
When Brady entered the NFL, he was far from the star he would later become. In fact, he was viewed as a prospect lacking in athletic traits and someone who didn’t take many risks on the field. However, his football IQ and fierce competitiveness stood out — traits that ultimately helped him earn a roster spot under Bill Belichick.
However, early in the 2001 season, Drew Bledsoe suffered an injury, and Brady stepped in as the starter. His performance was so impressive that he never relinquished the job — even after Bledsoe recovered.
Brady spoke about how players drafted late often don’t get many chances to prove themselves, and how he overcame that reality by staying prepared, focused, and ready to seize the opportunity when it finally came.
“You probably won’t get as many chances than the guy who gets picked No. 1 or No. 19 or No. 39. When you’re 199, you don’t have a ton of chances, but you will get a chance,” Brady added. “And I think anyone involved in athletics, as long as you get a chance, you know, you’re the one that to blame if it doesn’t work out for you.”
A key factor that helped Brady rise above being a late-round pick and ultimately earn the starting job was his mindset. During the interview, he emphasized a core trait that defined his journey: the ability to take accountability.
“You’re out there at practice every day, they film every practice. If you’re making plays, everyone wants good players on the field. Like, look at yourself in the mirror and say ‘What do I got to do to get better? What do I have to do to earn the trust of my teammates and coaches?’ Go ask them, go figure it out. Work harder.”
Brady wrapped up his thoughts by explaining that during practice, players should focus on improving the parts of their game that aren’t yet polished. Instead of only doing what they’re already good at, athletes should spend time working on their weaknesses — turning them into strengths over time.
Over 23 seasons in the NFL, Tom Brady threw for 89,214 yards and 649 touchdowns, won seven Super Bowls, earned three MVP awards, made 15 Pro Bowl appearances, and was named to the All-Pro team three times.
These accomplishments cement his legacy as the greatest player in NFL history. His mindset — the driving force behind this unprecedented success — continues to be studied by athletes across sports hoping to emulate the GOAT’s winning formula.