Tom Brady’s final pass as a New England Patriot, intercepted by Logan Ryan during the 2020 AFC Wild Card Game, has come full circle. What began as a dramatic end to an era in football history is now poised to make a lasting impact on animal welfare. The interception that sealed the Titans’ victory and marked Brady’s departure from the Patriots has taken on a new purpose, with the autographed football set to be auctioned off for charity.
In a twist of fate, Brady and Ryan, once rivals on the field, found themselves as teammates with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It was during their time together in Tampa that Ryan approached Brady to sign and inscribe the football from that memorable play. Brady, always willing to support a good cause, added his signature and a heartfelt inscription, immortalizing the ball as a symbol of transition and new beginnings.
Both Brady and Ryan, known for their on-field prowess, have also demonstrated a passion for giving back to the community, particularly in support of animal welfare. Their shared dedication led Ryan to decide to auction the football through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds benefiting the Ryan Animal Rescue Foundation (RARF), a nonprofit organization founded by Ryan and his wife, Ashley. RARF’s mission is to provide essential resources to shelters and rescues, making a positive impact on the lives of animals in need.
The Wilson “Duke” football has been authenticated as the one from Brady’s final pass as a Patriot, complete with a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA and a Letter of Provenance signed by Logan Ryan himself. This rare piece of memorabilia represents a pivotal moment in football history, now intertwined with a noble cause.
The upcoming auction presents a unique opportunity for sports memorabilia collectors and fans of Tom Brady to own a piece of history while supporting a worthy charitable endeavor. The football, beyond its significance as a game-ending play, has become a symbol of generosity and goodwill, embodying the spirit of giving back to those in need.
With bidding expected to generate substantial interest, this auction serves as a testament to the enduring impact of athletes like Ryan and Brady, who use their platform to make a difference in the lives of others. By participating in the auction through Goldin Auctions, supporters can directly contribute to RARF’s efforts to promote animal welfare, creating a legacy of compassion and advocacy in the sports community.
As the auction unfolds, the interception that once marked the end of an era for Brady now signifies a new chapter—one defined by empathy, support, and a shared commitment to making the world a better place for all beings.