Tom Brady’s final pass as a New England Patriot has transcended the realm of football and transitioned into a significant opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause. Intercepted by Logan Ryan of the Tennessee Titans during the 2020 AFC Wild Card Game, this pass now holds a deeper purpose as it is set to be auctioned with the goal of supporting animal welfare efforts.
In the closing moments of the game, with the Patriots facing a challenging situation on their own one-yard line, Brady’s pass intended for Mohamed Sanu was intercepted by Ryan, who ran it back for a touchdown. This marked not only the end of the game but also signified the conclusion of Brady’s remarkable 20-year tenure with the Patriots, adding a layer of sentiment and nostalgia to the intercepted ball.
After Brady’s transition to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020, both Brady and Ryan found themselves as teammates in Tampa. During this period, Ryan approached Brady with a special request to sign and inscribe the infamous football from that game-changing play. Brady complied, adding his autograph and inscriptions marking the significance of the pass, leading to the ball gaining widespread attention on social media and beyond.
Both Brady and Ryan, beyond their football prowess, share a passion for supporting animal welfare causes. Their involvement with the Tampa Bay Humane Society and personal initiatives advocating for animal welfare have been well-documented. In a bid to merge their dedication to this cause with the historic football, Ryan decided to auction off the ball through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds directed towards the Ryan Animal Rescue Foundation (RARF), a nonprofit organization established by Ryan and his wife, Ashley, to support animal welfare initiatives.
The Wilson “Duke” football used during the game has been authenticated as the one used in Brady’s final pass for the Patriots, verified through photomatching and accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from PSA/DNA. Additionally, a Letter of Provenance personally signed by Logan Ryan further solidifies the authenticity and importance of this unique memorabilia.
The impending auction presents a special opportunity for football enthusiasts and fans of Brady to acquire a tangible piece of football history while contributing to a noble cause dedicated to enhancing the lives of animals in need. The football symbolizes not just an ending but also the promise of new beginnings, both for the animals supported by the auction proceeds and for the individuals involved in this charitable endeavor.
Anticipated to attract significant interest from collectors and fans alike, the auction conducted through Goldin Auctions provides a platform for individuals to engage with the legacy of this pivotal football moment and contribute to RARF’s mission of advocating for animal welfare.
The auction of Tom Brady’s final pass football not only commemorates a significant chapter in football history but also underscores the enduring commitment of athletes like Logan Ryan and Tom Brady to making a positive impact on the world beyond the confines of the field.