Patriots Fans, Players, and Media Pressure Tom Brady to Endorse Team

Brady, a former Patriots star, faced backlash for saying he didn't "have a dog" in the Super Bowl this year.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Tom Brady, the legendary former quarterback of the New England Patriots, faced intense pressure from Patriots fans, players, and the media to publicly endorse the team ahead of the Super Bowl, despite saying he didn't "have a dog" in the game. Brady ultimately relented and posted an Instagram story saying he was rooting for the Patriots, but the author argues this manufactured outrage was embarrassing and unnecessary.

Why it matters

Brady's comments highlighted the intense loyalty and passion of Patriots fans, who expect unwavering support from their former star players. The backlash also revealed the media's tendency to sensationalize minor stories, as well as the insecurity of some Patriots players and fans who feel the need to demand public endorsements.

The details

Earlier this week, Brady, who is now a broadcaster and minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, said he "didn't have a dog" in the Super Bowl. This comment sparked outrage from Patriots fans, as well as former players like Vince Wilfork and Asante Samuel, who threatened to "go ape shit" on Brady if he didn't reverse course. The media also heavily covered the story, with the author describing the "faux outrage" and "pandering" as "next-level insane." Brady ultimately relented and posted an Instagram story saying he was rooting for the Patriots, but the author argues this was an unnecessary and embarrassing capitulation to the pressure.

  • On February 6, 2026, Brady said he "didn't have a dog" in the Super Bowl.
  • In the days leading up to the Super Bowl, Patriots fans, players, and the media heavily criticized Brady for his comments.
  • On February 7, 2026, Brady posted an Instagram story saying he was rooting for the Patriots.

The players

Tom Brady

A legendary former quarterback of the New England Patriots, who is now a broadcaster and minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Vince Wilfork

A former Patriots player who criticized Brady for not publicly endorsing the team.

Asante Samuel

A former Patriots player who threatened to "go ape shit" on Brady if he didn't reverse course and endorse the team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the intense loyalty and passion of Patriots fans, who expect unwavering support from their former star players. It also reveals the media's tendency to sensationalize minor stories and the insecurity of some Patriots players and fans who feel the need to demand public endorsements, even from retired players who have moved on with their lives.