Anonymous Exec: Tom Brady 'Is the 1 Domino Paralyzing the Entire NFL Right Now'

At least one anonymous NFL executive believes Patriots quarterback Tom Brady is "paralyzing" the league with his decision of whether to return to New England.

According to NBC's Peter King, the executive said speculation that the veteran signal-caller could leave the Patriots rose quite a bit during combine week, and it's having a major effect on the league:

"Brady, Brady, Brady. 'Tom Brady,' one well-connected NFL exec told me, 'is the one domino paralyzing the entire NFL right now.' That's because of the realization among teams here that Brady actually might leave New England. Before this past week, I'd say most people in the league thought Brady might flirt with other teams but eventually finish where he started and where he belongs. But by week's end, there was rising informed speculation the Raiders, Chargers, Colts and Titans (though that cause would be hurt if Derrick Henry leaves in free agency) could be in play for Brady."

King also suggested fans should pay attention to ESPN's Jeff Darlington, describing the reporter as someone inside Brady's circle. Darlington reported Brady believes he will not return to the Patriots next season:

The 42-year-old has spent his entire 20-year career with the NFL's premiere franchise, guiding the Patriots to six Super Bowl wins.

The 2019 season presented a step back for the team and player, culminating in a loss to the Tennessee Titans in the AFC Wild Card Round. The Patriots had advanced to at least the AFC title game the previous eight seasons.

Brady threw for 4,057 yards with 24 touchdowns and eight interceptions during the regular season—down numbers by his impossibly high standards. However, understandably NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reported the Patriots are planning around their longtime starter:

The Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers and Indianapolis Colts are all mentioned as possible suitors in King's piece.

The Titans in particular would be an intriguing fit, with former Patriots star Mike Vrabel coaching the team. They advanced to this past season's AFC Championship Game with Ryan Tannehill at the helm, building their offensive game plan around running back Derrick Henry.

The Chargers are looking for a replacement for veteran Philip Rivers, while the Colts have yet to fill the void left by Andrew Luck. The Raiders have Derek Carr, but his position as the unquestioned starter is far from safe.