If Brady leaves and NE's offense is ranked a lot worse than this year's, people will say that NE's offensive success was all because of Brady. On the other hand, if Stidham or another QB takes the reins, and NE has a great offensive season then it'll make him look like a genius. It's a risk that McDaniels would have to take staying here in NE. I'll bet that he and Brady are discussing as we speak about whether Brady wants to return. Brady's decision is going to influence McD's decision one way or the other. I am hoping McD staying here is an indication that Tom wants to stay.