Former NFL quarterback Tom Brady is just starting his broadcasting career but has already stirred up controversy. On Sunday, Brady made a remark during the game between the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers that might have led to punishment from the NFL.
In the second quarter, Lions safety Brian Branch delivered a powerful hit to Packers wide receiver Bo Melton. Officials ruled the hit targeted the head and neck area of the unprotected receiver, leading to Branch’s ejection. Brady commented, “I don’t love that call at all. I mean, obviously, it’s a penalty, but, to me, that has to be serious intent in a game like this.”
As a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, Brady is reportedly barred from openly criticizing officials—a rule that conflicts with his new role in broadcasting. Despite his public criticism of officiating, the league decided not to fine him for his remarks.
“Tom Brady won’t be punished for his comments during Sunday’s Packers-Lions game,” Front Office Sports reported. The league reportedly had “no issue” with Brady’s opinion. “The NFL had ‘no issue’ with Brady’s comments after Lions DB Brian Branch was flagged and ejected for hitting Packers WR Bo Melton in the head,” they added.
Previously, ESPN’s Seth Wickersham noted that Brady would be “prohibited” from criticizing officials as a Raiders co-owner. “He would be prohibited from publicly criticizing game officials and other clubs,” Wickersham stated, adding that Brady could face fines or suspension if his commentary went too far.
