Tom Brady takes aim at college football: he blames the transfer portal for the decline of quarterbacks in the NFL

Tom Brady ignited an unexpected debate about the alleged decline in NFL quarterback quality by aiming directly at the heart of the modern college system.

On the “RUSHMOREonX” podcast with Peyton Manning, his statements not only surprised many but also raised questions about how the next generation of talent is being developed.

An uncomfortable diagnosis from Tom Brady

For Tom Brady, the issue begins before players even reach the NFL. He explained that the college transfer portal and the NIL era have reshaped quarterback development, giving players a level of freedom that, in his view, disrupts their athletic maturation.

The ability to switch schools based on convenience, he argues, reduces continuity, standards, and tactical discipline.

During the conversation, Tom Brady recalled how his own development demanded commitment and a deep understanding of offensive and defensive schemes.

He remembered contributing up to 50 plays to the Patriots’ weekly game plan—something he believes is rare among today’s players.

To him, mastering the game depends not only on talent but also on sustained learning time, which becomes diluted when athletes constantly move between programs.

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He also pointed out that he no longer sees true “college programs” with strong developmental structures. Only teams that compete without a comprehensive focus on growth.

From his perspective, the NFL ends up with less-prepared players, which directly affects the league’s competitive level.

A contrast to the current era

Tom Brady argument gains weight when compared to his own journey. He spent five seasons with the Michigan Wolverines before being drafted. By the New England Patriots at pick 199 in the 2000 NFL Draft.

That stability marked the beginning of a historic career that would lead him to win seven Super Bowls and become an undisputed icon of the sport.

During the podcast, Peyton Manning contributed to the discussion, though it was Tom Brady who took a more critical stance regarding the consequences of this new collegiate dynamic.

In his words, the lack of continuity within a single institution weakens essential values such as patience, game awareness. And leadership development.