Tom Brady addresses return to Gillette Stadium for Patriots opener

Tom Brady sounds committed to returning to Gillette Stadium when the New England Patriots host the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 1 on Sept. 10. 

"It was such a kind gesture by (Patriots owner Robert Kraft), who I've been in touch with since the season ended," Brady explained during a Thursday appearance on ESPN, according to Kevin Patra of the NFL's website. "We've always had a great relationship. From the moment that I stepped foot in Foxborough, I've cherished that opportunity, and I've always felt like I've been a member of that organization. I know my football journey took me to (the Tampa Bay Buccaneers) for three years, which I absolutely loved. And when that ended I had an opportunity to really reconnect with RKK on a personal level." 

Brady famously featured for the Patriots from 2000 through the 2019 campaign and then spent his final three seasons with the Buccaneers. The 45-year-old earned six of his seven career Super Bowl rings with New England, and the Patriots announced last month they'll honor TB12 during their home opener in September. 

Brady seemingly slammed the door shut on a possible return as an active player during his latest media tour. The future Hall of Famer also expanded on why he's starting his first regular season as a retired signal-caller in New England after he guided the Buccaneers to a win at the Patriots in October 2021. 

"I went back there one time, it was in an opposing uniform, which was a different type of welcoming," Brady said. "Although people were very polite, and I had a great experience. To be able to go back there in a different frame of mind, a less competitive frame of mind, and I'm always pulling for the Patriots. It's been a great organization. I've got so many friends there still. My kids were born in Boston. I have so many incredible memories of my time there, and it's a great gesture by the organization."

Brady may not always pull for the Patriots, as he'll likely soon become a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. For at least one day in September, "Raider Nation" will have to be okay with one of the franchise's limited partners publicly supporting a different AFC club.