The GOAT is coming back home! Why Tom Brady returning to the Patriots is trending online

Tom Brady and Bill Belichick were a duo that struck fear into the hearts of NFL franchises for just about two decades. The two were a constant part of a dynasty that changed the concept of winning in the NFL. However, like they say, all good things must come to an end. As such, Tom Brady departed the New England Patriots as a free agent in 2020 to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Brady won a Super Bowl in his first season with the Bucs and was arguably the league's best player in his second. But his third season hasn't been all that glamorous by his lofty standards.

As such, recent reports suggest that there is a distinct possibility that next season will see another chapter added to the storyline. Brady and Belichick could be back together in New England. The exact source of the rumor is difficult to pin down, however, an article by Jeff Howe and the Athletic seems to be the likely culprit. Either way, let's look at the possibilities and why this reunion isn't just wishful thinking.

Why could Tom Brady reunite with Bill Belichick?

Since Tom Brady left the Patriots, the side has seen some issues at the quarterback position. Bill Belichick turned to former NFL MVP winner Cam Newton to call the shots. It was a disaster, as the Patriots missed the Playoffs for the first time since Brady missed a full season with an injury.

Bill Belichick then drafted Mac Jones out of the University of Alabama. Jones was heralded as a Brady clone due to his similar build and air of professionalism. However, following a successful rookie season, Jones has regressed significantly in his second season. So much so that he has been benched in key stretches of the campaign.

As such, it is speculated that Bill Belichick is eager to bring Brady back to the Patriots to steer the ship and directly mentor Jones. It could be a win-win for all the parties involved. Tom Brady could end his career where it started, in the Patriots' locker room.

The decision would be what to do with Mac Jones. He could stay and learn from the greatest to ever do it, but is that what either party wants? The issue is that Jones will likely not want to be a backup QB as he waits for Brady to retire, and the Patriots would have a contract decision to make with him in the future.

New England would likely trade him for picks. These they could either use on a QB in the 2023 draft (and have him learn behind Brady) or select one when Brady retires (assuming that would be after the 2023 season). Or they could use those picks to build a better unit surrounding Brady for a big Super Bowl push. There really are several possibilities here.

If the Patriots were to elect to trade Jones, it seems logical to expect a smooth negotiator like Belichick to trade up in the draft to select the QB he has his eye on. As to whether this is any more than speculation will likely remain unconfirmed until the end of the season. At this point, there are simply too many variables to consider.

How is Tom Brady performing this season?

The 23-year veteran QB has nothing to prove on the Gridiron. However, his competitive spirit has stopped him from hanging up his cleats. This spirit made him reverse his retirement and return for a third season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, albeit with mixed results.

Brady has put up a respectable stat line for the Bucs as they look to make the playoffs again. He has recorded 3,051 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and two interceptions in 11 games.