Veteran quarterback Tom Brady returned to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers training camp on Monday after taking an 11-day prearranged break for personal reasons. Despite his absence, Brady appeared alert and ready for the new season, coach Todd Bowles said, adding that he essentially picked up where he left off with the team on August 11.
“If anybody can get away with the 11-day break during training camp, it’s Tom. He came back, kind of firing on all cylinders again. We’re all excited he’s back and ready to move on,” tight end Cameron Brate commented.
Quarterbacks coach Clyde Christensen expressed his gratitude for Brady’s return, explaining that he was sorely missed. Brady missed two preseason games during his absence.
During Brady’s time away, backup Blaine Gabbert and third-stringer Kyle Trask participated in most of the snaps during training camp. Clearly feeling Brady’s absence, the Buccaneers lost their games against both the Miami Dolphins and the Tennessee Titans. There is now a possibility that Brady will feature in Tampa Bay’s final preseason matchup against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.
A seven-time Super Bowl champion, Brady is entering his 21st season in the NFL.
