Dear Michael,
Firstly, before we get started, I just want to say thank you. I imagine the pressure of working with such a renowned organization is somewhat intimidating, and having to compete for a starting position over a former MVP and QB1 is no easy task. Not to mention you’re following in the footsteps of literally the greatest quarterback this game has even seen, from a dynasty that spanned two decades. There are, and will continue to be, a lot of eyes on you as you move forward. It’s a lot for someone who was a year old when Brady first entered the league.
As someone who grew up in the height of the Brady/Belichick era, the dominant performances of the Patriots were something I grew accustomed to. AFC title here, AFC title there, a few Superbowl trophies sprinkled in between as well -- it was a nice way to grow up. But now we are in 2021, and things are a little different. Brady’s moved on, Bob Kraft made the news in some not so fantastic ways, and the Patriots are looking to bounce back off their first losing season in over 5 years. To say New England fans have high expectations would be the understatement of the century. Just like the winters, fans are brutal, cold, and are willing to absolutely dump on you the moment things are looking bleak.
But there is good news for you, Mac. With the bar being set so low last year, coupled with a little off-season spending, there is plenty of opportunity to win over us New Englanders this season. Many of us are a bit more understanding, perhaps even a bit more humble after last season. We know you’re a rookie, and even coming from a program like ‘Bama, we know there is a learning curve playing in the NFL. I know I am more than happy to give you some time to adjust, and I’m sure I’m not the only one. You’ve got an army of people who are willing to throw themselves behind you, and the chance to become what Tom Brady’s Patriots career was for me, for the next generation of Patriot fans. There’s only one thing you have to do, one stoic piece of advice that, above all, must be followed: Do Your Job.
It’s really that simple. Keep your head down and your ego in check, don’t go out and party your ass off -- just do your job. Study the film. Learn the routes. Bond with the guys, be a part of the team, not just the center. Everyone in this organization has a job to do, and when done right, we become an absolute steamroller of a team. Losing records are unheard of, and should remain a thing of the past. So please, Mac, from a guy who grew up with 20 years of greatness, some mild heartbreak, and one of the best football franchises to ever play the sport -- come out of the gate strong and do your goddamn job.
Thanks,
-A Lifelong Patriots Fan
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