Tom Brady’s last pass as a New England Patriot was not the triumphant moment fans had hoped for. Intercepted by Logan Ryan of the Tennessee Titans during the 2020 AFC Wild Card Game, it marked the end of an era for Brady and the Patriots. Now, this infamous football is taking on a new role: raising funds for animal welfare.
In a nail-biting final 15 seconds of the game, Brady, standing on their one-yard line, aimed a pass at Mohamed Sanu. But fate had other plans as the ball was deflected into the hands of Ryan, who swiftly returned it for a game-sealing touchdown, putting an abrupt end to the Patriots’ playoff hopes and Brady’s time with the team.
Fast forward to 2022, Brady and Ryan found themselves teammates at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It was during this time that Ryan approached Brady with a unique request—to sign and add a special inscription on the football from that pivotal intercepted pass. Brady complied, leaving his mark on the ball with a signature and the words “Last Pass As A Patriot,” “1/4/20,” and “Logan Ryan INT,” turning the football into an instant social media sensation.
Both Brady and Ryan, outside their football careers, share a passion for supporting animal welfare causes. While in Tampa, they dedicated time to the Tampa Bay Humane Society, with Brady’s family even welcoming a new feline member. Inspired by their shared commitment, Ryan chose to auction the autographed football through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds benefiting the Ryan Animal Rescue Foundation (RARF), a nonprofit organization spearheaded by him and his wife, Ashley. RARF aims to enhance animal welfare standards through financial aid and educational programs for shelters and rescues.
The Wilson “Duke” football, with a photo match to Brady’s final Patriot pass, comes with a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA and a Letter of Provenance signed by Logan Ryan, ensuring its genuineness and historical importance.
The upcoming auction offers a distinctive chance for sports memorabilia collectors and Brady enthusiasts to own a piece of football history while contributing to a noble cause. More than a mere symbol of a game-altering play, Ryan emphasizes that the football embodies new beginnings, symbolizing hope for the animals who will benefit from the auction and for the player who intercepted the football’s original owner.
Anticipated to attract significant interest, bidding on the football is open to all through Goldin Auctions, with every dollar raised going directly towards RARF’s mission to improve animal welfare standards.
This auction not only commemorates a memorable football moment but also showcases the enduring dedication of athletes like Ryan and Brady to make a positive impact on society beyond their sports careers.