NFL states Tom Brady will not face any disciplinary action for criticizing referee at Packers-Lions game
ARLINGTON, TEXAS: Former NFL quarterback and Las Vegas Raiders minority owner Tom Brady will not face consequences for his critical comments about officiating during last week’s Green Bay Packers vs Detroit Lions game, People reported.
While commentating for Fox Sports, Brady questioned the decision to eject Detroit's Brian Branch for a helmet-to-helmet hit, saying, “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.”
No action against Tom Brady for calling out referees during Packers-Lions game
As a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, Brady is restricted from on-air criticism of officials or teams. However, an NFL review concluded that Brady’s comments were not “egregiously critical” or questioning the integrity of the officiating crew.
NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said in an exclusive interview that the league's concern would only arise if Brady’s remarks crossed certain boundaries, which they determined was not the case in this instance.
"The concern would be if Tom was egregiously critical of officiating or called into question the integrity of an official or the crew. That did not occur in this instance,” he said.
The Lions ultimately defeated the Packers 24-14 in a game marked by Brady’s outspoken analysis from the broadcast booth. Now, nine weeks into his first season as Fox’s lead NFL analyst, Brady has steadily gained praise from critics, who see his insights as a valuable addition to game commentary.
On a recent episode of 'Let’s Go!', the podcast he co-hosted before joining Fox, Brady shared his enthusiasm for his new broadcasting role, though he admitted nothing compares to playing on the field. “It’s been really fun to sit and watch these games from the 50-yard line,” he said.
"Although I'd much prefer to be on the field playing, because it's a lot more fun down there, but I’m not doing that anymore. But just watching from above and seeing how these guys are performing is pretty cool," the former quarterback added.
Internet reacts as Tom Brady faces no penalty for criticizing referee
Social media users took to Facebook to express their views after Tom Brady narrowly escaped NFL punishment for his recent critique of a referee's call during a game.
Known for his unfiltered opinions, Brady’s latest remarks have ignited discussions about his freedom as a commentator and whether his previous reputation as a player impacts perceptions of his commentary.
One user wrote, "He was never held accountable for any of his cheating as a player, they won't hold him accountable as a broadcaster."
Another praised his commentary skills, with one fan saying, "Brady is doing an excellent job as a professional commentator. The guy knows his stuff and is bringing his 'A game.' I am very happy for him for successfully making the transition from player to commentator."
Some fans defended his right to speak freely as an analyst.
"Good. He shouldn’t be for what he said cuz he was right, and I HATE having to defend Tom Brady," one person commented.
Another remarked, "There should be no punishment because Brady did not cross any line or break any restriction. However, there should not have been any restrictions placed on him. He is a commentator; allow him to do his job."
"Good. He was giving honest opinion," one individual said, while another added, "The NFL needs to worry about the Refs not commentator who's job it is to point things out."
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.
