Tom Brady’s final pass as a New England Patriot was not just another play in a football game—it was a moment that etched itself into the annals of the sport’s history. Intercepted by the Tennessee Titans’ Logan Ryan during the 2020 AFC Wild Card Game, this pass marked the end of an era for Brady and the Patriots. Now, that very football is poised to embark on a new journey—one that involves raising funds for a noble cause: animal welfare.
In the closing moments of the intense game, with only 15 seconds left on the clock and the Patriots in a dire position on their own one-yard line, Brady’s pass intended for Mohamed Sanu met an unexpected fate. The ball was tipped, falling into the waiting arms of Ryan, who then swiftly carried it for a touchdown, securing the Titans’ victory and bringing an abrupt end to the Patriots’ playoff aspirations. This interception not only sealed the game’s outcome but also signified the culmination of Brady’s remarkable 20-year tenure with the Patriots.
After Brady’s transition to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2022, fate brought him and Ryan back together as teammates. During their time in Tampa, Ryan approached Brady with a unique request: to sign and inscribe the football from that pivotal play. Brady graciously obliged, leaving his mark on the ball with a signature and poignant inscriptions that read, “Last Pass As A Patriot,” “1/4/20,” and “Logan Ryan INT.” This autographed football quickly garnered widespread attention on social media, captivating audiences and becoming a viral sensation.
Beyond their on-field endeavors, both Brady and Ryan, along with their families, have been champions of animal welfare causes. In Tampa, they devoted their time to volunteering at the Tampa Bay Humane Society, with the Brady family even welcoming a furry addition by adopting a kitten. Inspired by their shared commitment to this cause, Ryan made the decision to auction the historic football through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds slated to benefit the Ryan Animal Rescue Foundation (RARF), a nonprofit organization he established alongside his wife, Ashley. RARF’s noble mission involves supporting animal welfare by extending financial and educational aid to shelters and rescue organizations, thereby enhancing the lives of numerous animals in need.
The football in question, a Wilson “Duke” ball, has been verified to be from Brady’s final pass as a Patriot through photomatching and is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA. A Letter of Provenance signed by Logan Ryan further attests to the authenticity and significance of this iconic piece.
The forthcoming auction serves as a distinctive opportunity for avid collectors and fans of Brady to own a tangible slice of football history while contributing to a commendable cause. As Ryan aptly articulates, the football represents more than just a concluding play in a game—it symbolizes fresh beginnings, both for the animals who will benefit from the auction’s proceeds and for the individual who once intercepted the legendary quarterback.
Anticipated to attract substantial interest, bidding on the football is expected to draw enthusiasts from far and wide, drawn not only to its storied past but also the charitable endeavor it supports. Those keen on partaking in the auction can engage in the bidding process through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds serving the paramount goal of advancing RARF’s mission to champion animal welfare.
This auction stands as a homage to a pivotal juncture in football history, underscored by the continued dedication of athletes like Ryan and Brady to making a positive impact by giving back to the community in ways that truly matter.
