Just imagine you’re on the gridiron, pouring your heart and soul into the game, while your family, kids, friends, and the rest of the world are celebrating Christmas. It feels like one of those moments when you question your deepest motivations for playing football, right? But sometimes you have to self-suggest only one thing- just do more! Do you think NFL legend Tom Brady would disagree? Probably not.

Recently, Brady appeared on the podcast Let’s Go! With Bill Belichick, Maxx Crosby, and Jim Gray where he shared a similar perspective. As the holiday season unfolds and the NFL playoffs draw near, the seven-time Super Bowl champion shared an opinion that’s bound to leave an impression. He said, “I think as an athlete, this is the time where you’ve got to improve. This is the time you should be able to separate yourself. You can’t think that, and a lot of guys want to go.”

The former Patriots superstar elaborated, explaining how a player’s mindset can waver during the festive season. Brady continued, “Your body fights you every day. It’s saying, ‘Hey man, it’s been a long year, chill out, it’s hard, you need more sleep, it’s colder, and you’ve got family and holidays. Hey, do a little less—we’ve got this going’.” After delivering this pointed take, Brady emphasized why maintaining such a work ethic is crucial. And let’s not forget—his illustrious career lends plenty of credibility to these words.

Actually, a few hours ago, Patrick Mahomes said something similar when he was asked about the Chiefs‘ game against the Steelers. He replied that the Chiefs are fully focused on the game and are approaching the Christmas matchup as if it were any other. Brady wants the same from NFL players: focusing on their craft while others might not be working.

As the postseason buzz began to build, Brady’s message was clear: “And to me, this is like… this is actually when you can make bigger jumps because the opponents are doing less. So, if you do a little more, you can actually separate the gap even more.” But where did this conversation stem from? What sparked it? Well, it might have something to do with Brady spending the holidays away from his kids.

Tom Brady: Vacation in the Bahamas and criticism

The sportscaster recently celebrated the holidays away from his Miami home. Stunning Instagram photos captured the beauty of the Bahamas, where Brady enjoyed a fantastic getaway. He even shared a shirtless picture of himself, accompanied by Morgan Wallen’s song ‘Hope That’s True’. But what’s the connection to criticism?

Brady’s bold take came after the backlash he received for poor commentary during the Ravens vs. Steelers matchup. The Fox presenter mispronounced the name of running back Najee Harris during the game. Earlier in the season, he also faced criticism for calling the Ravens’ season “frustrating.” However, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson responded to Brady with optimism, saying, “The season has just started—there’s room for improvement.”

At the end of the day, Tom Brady’s work ethic and mindset remind us why he’s one of the greatest to ever play the game. Whether he’s grinding on the field or taking heat for his off-field moves, Brady keeps it real and focused on what matters most—always staying a step ahead. Love him or hate him, the man knows how to make waves, both in football and in life. And honestly, isn’t that what legends are all about?