It was 2002, and the former second-round pick had just turned 30. He was a free agent for the first time in his career, on the verge of a decent payday, but he had endured countless ankle injuries, and his primary goal was to protect his body for the long term. Bill Belichick did not seem like the guy to do it.

College Football North Carolina Tar Heels Tom Brady Joel Klatt The Joel Klatt Show: Big Noon Conversations

Tom Brady provided positive comments towards Bill Belichick as the coach prepares for his first season with the North Carolina Tar Heels.