When Elway's 37 and 38, he won his two Superbowls, and then retired a few months later (at 38). Unlike previous years where he was the entire offense, the Broncos built up a dominant run game that helped Elway to avoid getting hit so much and avoid injury.
I've been expecting a similar approach with Brady for about the last 6 years and have been dead wrong every year. Every year, the Patriots have focused almost entirely on the passing game (especially in big playoff games) and Brady has been hit an absolute ton. Of all of the most amazing things about the GOAT, Brady's ability to play through all of these hits at his age and keep on the field is among the most amazing things about him.
However, he will be 41 at the start of the next season, and it seems like at long, long last (about 5 years later than I thought would be the case) the Patriots are taking some steps to reduce the number of hits to their 41 year old quarterback. The have drafted Wynn on the OL and now appear to be bringing in Brown. They have also drafted the most promising running back NE has had in years, perhaps there will finally be more emphasis in the running game this year (not to mention that Michel is an outstanding blocker himself for pass plays.
In my opinion, it is high time for these moves to protect the treasure that is Tom Brady a bit and finally reduce the number of hits he gets this season.
