NFL analyst predicts possible Patriots homecoming for Tom Brady

As the 2022 season starts killing off teams, Tom Brady's Tampa Bay Buccaneers are hanging on by a thread at 4-5. Depending on how things go for the quarterback over the coming weeks, one NFL analyst has outlined a potential path back to the New England Patriots.

On The Herd with Colin Cowherd, NFL analyst Jeff Howe said Brady will not be content playing for a team that cannot compete for the Super Bowl.

"My theory is that if Brady continues to be frustrated for the remainder of this season in Tampa and he's going to become a free agent if he still wants to keep playing, I don't think he's going to want to come back at age 46 seeing an organization or a roster that he doesn't think is going to meet his Super Bowl expectations."

He continued, claiming that Brady could also look at the San Francisco 49ers and the Las Vegas Raiders.

"So who is he going to look at? Of course, he would [gravitate] toward his hometown 49ers. I think he would also be gravitated toward Josh McDaniels and the Raiders if they want to split with Derek Carr. And I'm not willing to rule out a potential return to the Patriots. I think at this point in his career, familiarity is going to be important."

Tom Brady's performances in 2022 through nine weeks

Los Angeles Rams v Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The most accomplished quarterback in NFL history is coming off his biggest win of the season. However, Super Bowls are not won in one game.

Through nine games, Brady has thrown for 10 touchdowns and one interception. He is second in the league in terms of passing yards. Overall, the quarterback has been far from an issue, at least in a way that 4-5 teams have experienced over the years.

Instead, the trouble has come with critical mistakes at critical times. Will the team get back on track or could Tom Brady already be thinking about jumping ship after the season?

If any of the above quotes are used, please credit the Herd with Colin Cowherd and H/T Sportskeeda.