New England Patriots veteran quarterback Tom Brady addressed recent talk about his retirement on Wednesday (Jan. 31), saying there’s no reason for him to hang up his cleats soon as he still having fun playing football while the team is doing well. Per WEEI.com, Brady felt irritated about the continuous talk about his retirement. “Why does everyone want me to retire so bad? I don’t get it,” the 40-year-old Brady said. Brady said he’s aware that he’s older that his fellow quarterbacks and most of the players in the league, but his competitive fire remains burning.

“I obviously enjoy the experience of playing this game. This is a dream come true many times over,” added Brady, who reiterated his plans of playing until he’s 45 years old. Brady will go for his sixth Super Bowl ring Sunday (Feb. 4) against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Brady was not listed on the Patriots’ Wednesday’s injury report and was a full participant in practice. He was spotted in practice wearing a black tape on his thumb, which sustained a cut days before their AFC Championship Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The cut needed several stitches to close, forcing Brady to wear a tape to protect it in their 24-20 win over the Jaguars. This week, the stitches were removed and Brady is consistently working to get his throwing hand in good shape before their showdown with the Eagles.

Pool reporter Nicki Jhabvala noted that Brady led the offense through passing and red-zone drills to start, then situational 11-on-11 football.

Gronkowski listed as limited

Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski was limited in Wednesday’s practice as he works his way back from a concussion that he suffered against the Jaguars. Reporters noted that Gronkowski was by Brady's side during the entire practice session.

Patriots head coach told Jhabvala that Gronkowski was red-jerseyed during Wednesday’s practice so he can work his way back and play on Sunday. Gronkowski spoke at a Patriots event Tuesday, where he declared that he will be cleared to play on Sunday. The Patriots will practice again Thursday and Friday (Feb. 1-2). Belichick said the Patriots are slowly getting their top form in their preparation for a tough Eagles side.

Three other Patriots limited in practice

Aside from Gronkowski, three other Patriots players were limited in practice. Cornerback Malcolm Butler, defensive lineman Deatrich Wise (concussion), and defensive back Brandon King were all limited due to different issues. Butler was limited by illness, Wise has yet to pass concussion protocol while King is having knee issues.
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