Tom Brady shocked the world on Sunday when he announced that he will be returning for another season with the Buccaneers after two months of retirement. In a social media statement, the 7- time Super Bowl Champion declared that he had “unfinished business” in the NFL. 

Following the Tampa Bay Bucs’ loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round of the playoffs, Brady announced his retirement and consequently, the balance of power in the league shifted. Without the NFL star, the title for best quarterback was up for grabs, and it was time for a new dynasty to form. However, even as one of the oldest active players in the NFL, many did not believe that he had really called it quits—including his team.

According to Bucs’ general manager Jason Licht, the Bucs organization was prepared for Brady’s return and is ready to “reload the team and prepare for a championship run.” 

Fortunately for the Buccaneers, Brady unretired in a very strategic and timely manner. The announcement came the day before free agency, leaving the Bucs an opportunity to “reload” their roster instead of going into complete rebuild mode. If they want to completely restore their championship roster, the Bucs will have to bring back tight end Rob Gronkowski, right guard Alex Cappa, cornerback Carlton Davis, running back Leonard Fournette, safety Jordan Whitehead, defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh, and outside linebacker Jason Pierre Paul.

Brady cited his family and the fact that he only wanted to perform at the highest level possible as reasons for retirement. Brady’s wife, Gisele Bundchen, said she struggled with seeing Brady take so many hits, and with his children getting older, she’d like him to be more present and available. However, Brady did have the full support of his family, expressing that they made his return possible.

Brady’s extra season provides an exciting opportunity for him to try and maintain the level of excellence that he has shown in the past, and to help solidify the Bucs has intimidating contenders against a formidable AFC. With the former 199th overall pick, anything is possible.