Brady: 'Tragedy' that young QBs aren't developed like they used to be

Future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady is unhappy with how young quarterbacks are being developed in modern football.

"There used to be college programs. Now there are college teams," Brady said, according to Liam McKeone of Sports Illustrated. "You're no longer learning a program, you're learning a playbook."

Brady added: "It's just a tragedy that we're forcing these rookies to play early. … We've dumbed the game down, which has allowed them to play (early). It used to be thought of at a higher level."

Plenty of rookie signal-callers are expected to earn playing time in 2024. The Chicago Bears' Caleb Williams and the Washington Commanders' Jayden Daniels have already been named Week 1 starters. Meanwhile, New England Patriots passer Drake Maye is competing with veteran Jacoby Brissett for the starting role, while Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is expected to be named the club's starter sooner than later.

The Atlanta Falcons' Michael Penix Jr. and the Minnesota Vikings' J.J. McCarthy, who will miss the year with a meniscus injury, are the only first-round quarterbacks who aren't expected to play as rookies.

Brady didn't start until he was thrust into action in his second season. He earned Pro Bowl honors as he led New England to an 11-3 record in 14 starts. The Michigan product credited his college experience for helping him acclimate to the pro game.

"For five years, I got to learn how to drop-back pass, to read defenses, to read coverages, to be coached. … That was development," he said. "Then I went to New England, and I was developed by Coach (Bill) Belichick and the offensive staff there."

Recent quarterbacks who have excelled after sitting for the bulk of their rookie seasons include two-time MVP Patrick Mahomes and Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love.