Brady confident returning to NFL: There's 'still a place for me on the field'

Despite retiring at the age of 44 on Feb. 1, Tom Brady said Monday that he never doubted his ability to physically keep up with today's game.

In fact, Brady, who'll turn 45 on Aug. 3, said he returned for a 23rd NFL season last month because he believes he still belongs in the league.

"I knew my body, physically, could still do what it could do," the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback told Tom VanHaaren of ESPN. "And, obviously, I have a love for the game. I think I'll always have a love for the game.

"I do think, physically, I'll be able to do it. I just felt like there was still a place for me on the field."

After spending time with his family and reflecting on his decision to leave football, Brady spoke with members of the Buccaneers organization, including former head coach Bruce Arians. He then eventually decided to end his 40-day retirement. Brady said he was motivated by the love for his teammates and the chance to make up for last season's "very bitter ending" at the hands of the Los Angeles Rams.

"I wanted to give myself and my teammates and our organization another incredible opportunity to accomplish something that we'd all be very proud of," he said.

Brady added: "At the end of the day, I just love the competition on the field."

However, the future Hall of Famer realizes he's at the end of his career.

"I wish you could go forever, but it's just not (possible). Football comes at too high of a cost now," he said. "My kids are getting older, and it's just getting harder and harder to miss these things."

Brady showcased that he could still produce at an elite level in 2021. He led the league with 5,316 passing yards and 43 touchdowns last season.