Former Patriots wide receiver Josh Gordon revealed that seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady required his teammates to live with him during the offseason, according to OutKick. This unusual arrangement included hours of intense training and drills for Gordon and other players.
What happened
Josh Gordon shared on a livestream that Tom Brady’s dedication to excellence extended to unique training methods. “He made us live with him in the offseason,” Gordon explained. This living arrangement involved staying at Brady’s house where they would train rigorously for countless hours.[2]
Gordon outlined the training routine, stating, “It’d be me, Julian Edelman, and Rob Gronkowski. We would just do the most crazy routine of like standing in one spot and at least 50 times you just catching one specific pass.” He emphasized Brady’s obsessive work ethic, demonstrating how it pushed the team to their limits.
“When you see how hard people prepare,” Gordon remarked, referring to Brady’s extraordinary approach to the game, “that’s about the craziest s–t.”
Why it matters
Brady’s intense offseason regimen exemplifies the levels of dedication and preparation that often separate successful teams from their competitors in the NFL. This commitment not only enhances team performance but also fosters a unique bond among teammates, crucial for achieving high-level success.
Such rigorous training methods highlight the importance of accountability within a team. This approach has been a significant factor in the Patriots’ long-standing dominance in the league.
Background
On September 17, 2018, the New England Patriots traded for Josh Gordon, who had faced multiple suspensions and struggled to maintain a consistent career. Brady aimed to provide the necessary structure to help Gordon fulfill his potential, offering a supportive environment.[1]
During the 2018 season, Gordon showcased flashes of his raw talent, catching 40 passes for 737 yards and three touchdowns. However, repeated violations of the league’s substance abuse policy ultimately hindered his progress.[3]
What’s next
Patriots fans will reflect on what could have been if Gordon’s natural abilities had aligned consistently with Brady’s disciplined regimen as recent discussions about both players’ respective legacies continue to emerge.
