As Tom Brady gears up to become Fox’s lead in-game NFL analyst for the upcoming season, the retired quarterback has spent the past 18 months offering valuable guidance to younger quarterbacks, including Chicago Bears rookie Caleb Williams.
Williams recently shared insights with ESPN’s Courtney Cronin about the advice he received from Brady, shedding light on the preparation needed to excel in the NFL. Brady, renowned for his seven Super Bowl titles and five Super Bowl MVP awards, emphasized several key aspects of succeeding at the professional level. According to Williams, Brady focused on “competitive stamina,” the importance of building strong relationships with teammates, and the recognition that the job is inherently challenging.
“He kept stressing the importance of competitive stamina and understanding your teammates,” Williams revealed, as reported by Andrew Peters of Bleacher Report. “Brady emphasized that winning games is tough and that dedicating oneself to film study, maintaining a disciplined diet, and managing all controllable factors are crucial. By mastering these elements, you improve your chances of success on the field.
Brady retired in February 2023 after an illustrious career that spanned more than two decades. His longevity and success were partly attributed to his meticulous approach to health and fitness, famously embodied in his “TB12 Method.” This method has become a benchmark for many players, with some, like future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers, adopting elements of Brady’s regimen to extend their careers.
Williams has taken some of Brady’s advice to heart, particularly regarding the TB12 diet. He acknowledged the importance of Brady’s extensive experience and the impact of his lifestyle on his career longevity. “Brady’s knowledge from 22 years of playing and staying healthy is invaluable,” Williams said. “I’m striving to achieve a similar level of longevity and health. A significant part of this involves diet and exercise. While the mental and physical aspects are crucial on the field, controlling what I can, like my diet, is essential for a long and successful career.”
Despite the glowing endorsements of Brady’s approach, there were some doubts expressed by scouts before the Bears selected Williams as the top pick in this year’s draft. An AFC scout had mentioned that quarterback Jayden Daniels, now with the Washington Commanders, was perceived to have a greater passion for football and, therefore, might be more committed as a rookie. However, Williams appears determined to prove these doubts unfounded as he prepares for his regular-season debut against the Tennessee Titans on September 8.
Williams’ efforts to align with Brady’s recommendations and improve his game are indicative of his commitment to overcoming any skepticism and demonstrating his readiness for the NFL. By embracing the advice from one of the greatest quarterbacks in history, Williams is setting himself up for a promising start to his professional career, showing that he is taking every possible step to meet the high expectations placed upon him.
