Tom Brady is an NFL legend whose name is associated with a lot of historic feats. Boasting an incredible record of having the most passing yards at 89,214, Brady’s accolades speak for itself. He also has the most passing touchdowns(649), followed by a whopping 15 Pro Bowl appearances. However, keeping aside the glorious deeds, Brady’s name is also associated with one of the most hated NFL controversies of all time- The Deflategate. Here’s everything that you need to know.
What Is Deflategate?
The New England Patriots emerged victorious against the Indianapolis Colts back in the 2014 AFC Championship Game. However, scathing allegations against Tom Brady poured cold waters on the Patriots’ spectacular victory. As per the speculations, Brady deliberately asked for deflating the balls used by the Patriots. This was a huge accusation as this would mean that the Patriots’ players had an undue advantage over the others throughout the league.
Tom Brady finally laughs about Deflategate in the @footlocker #WeekOfGreatness video. #ad pic.twitter.com/B8GTsyIaWv
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) November 16, 2016
As per the official rules laid down by the NFL, there is a certain limit to which the football must be inflated. It must have a gauge pressure measuring between 12.5 to 13.5 pounds per square inch. Anything below that will enable the athletes to throw, catch, or grab the ball much more easily. The speculation initially came into the limelight when the Baltimore Ravens and the Colts doubted foul play. And while this remains as one of the biggest NFL scandals, Tom Brady didn’t get away easily.
Tom Brady Got Suspended And The Patriots Bore A Hefty Fine
While there was no definitive proof of Tom Brady’s involvement in the scandal, he suffered a heavy penalty. Brady was handed suspension and was barred from featuring in the first four games of the regular season in 2016. The New England Patriots too, bore the brunt, as they had to fill in a fine of $1 million. Alongside, the Patriots were also barred from two draft picks ahead of the 2016 season.
Tom Brady beats NFL in “Deflategate” court case, judge nullifies 4-game suspension per multiple reports pic.twitter.com/Y2S2KSeUmt
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) September 3, 2015
Meanwhile, in February 2022, things took a surprising new turn. Journalist Mike Florio accused the NFL authorities of falsifying the information. Florio also claimed that the NFL had deliberately destroyed evidence that would have given the New England Patriots a clean chit. Thus, with mystery and confusion surrounding the scandal, the Deflategate case will remain as a black spot in Tom Brady’s otherwise clean ledger.
Also Read: Bryson DeChambeau Gets Roasted For His Terrible Attempt At Making Tom Brady Deflategate Joke (TWEETS)
