In a fiery debut as a broadcaster, the legendary Tom Brady did not hold back in his critique of the Dallas Cowboys during their humiliating 44-19 loss to the New Orleans Saints. As the Cowboys struggled on the field, Brady seized the opportunity to deliver his unfiltered analysis of a crucial play that may have altered the course of the game.
The moment in question occurred just before halftime, with the Cowboys trailing 28-13. Quarterback Dak Prescott targeted rookie wide receiver Jalen Brooks with a pass into Saints territory. However, Brooks slipped before he could make the catch, resulting in a costly interception. Brady did not mince words when discussing this pivotal moment.
In a conversation with his FOX boothmate Kevin Burkhardt, Brady was asked about Prescott continuing to target Brooks to boost the rookie’s confidence. Brady’s response was brutally honest: “Not today. It’s actually pretty tough to go back there. You know where he’s at, and you’re saying, ‘I’m going to him, and I just can’t count on him that he’s going to stay on his feet.’ [Prescott] obviously trusts him to do the right thing, but can he make the play, ultimately can he go out there and execute?”
Despite Brady’s skepticism, Prescott decided to give Brooks another chance on the Cowboys’ next possession. This time, Brooks managed to secure his only catch of the game for 10 yards, aiding the offense in reaching field goal range before halftime.
Brooks, a seventh-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft, had a limited impact last season with just six catches for 64 yards in seven games. It is evident that he still has a long way to go in earning the trust of his quarterback, as well as the respect of seasoned veterans like Brady.