The 2014 NFL season is one to forget for Tom Brady. As the young season looms on, Brady sees his offensive rankings hit rock bottom in practically every statistical category. Through 4 games, Brady has only completed 81 passes on 137 pass attempts, which is equivalent to 59.1 completion percentage. There is no doubt that Brady is sputtering into a dark hole, but the Patriots lack of offensive support is the biggest reason why he is struggling. His primary target, Rob Gronkowski, is coming off a season where he had a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee, and his durability over the past few seasons is a cause for concern. Since his rookie year, Gronkowski was sidelined for significant time, and ruined the Patriots passing scheme that involves 2 TE’s. Without Gronkowski, Brady had to rely on inexperienced receivers who have recorded under 250 catches in their careers. Even with the weak receiving core and the Wes Welker-less offense, Brady was still able to lead the Patriots to AFC Championship game, before losing to the Denver Broncos.
Now the early question for the 2014 season is will the Pats continue their success on continue to lean on the future Hall of Famer’s shoulder. He is now 1 year older and plague with fatique of a 14 year career. No experience in the receiving core, and an offensive line that is getting weaker by the minute. No Logan Mankins means no weak-side protection for Brady and the number of sacks will increase as well because of the lack of protection.
Not only is Brady regarded as one of the best QB’s to ever play the game, but he is also leaving behind his partner in crime for 14 remarkable years. Together, Brady and head coach Bill Bilicheck have won 3 super bowls, and Brady currently holds the record for most playoff wins by a quarterback with 18. The dominance by the Patriots lasted for over a decade, which was mostly contributed to the historic performances by Tom Brady.
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