Tom Brady’s illustrious career has been marked by countless memorable passes, but perhaps none more unforgettable than his final throw as a New England Patriot. In a twist of fate, that pass was not a touchdown or a game-winning moment but rather an interception returned for a touchdown by Tennessee Titans’ Logan Ryan during the 2020 AFC Wild Card Game. This interception not only spelled the end of the game but also signaled the conclusion of Brady’s two-decade-long tenure with the Patriots.
As fate would have it, Brady and Ryan crossed paths once again when they became teammates with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2022. During their time together in Tampa, Ryan approached Brady with a unique request—to sign and inscribe the football from that final, fateful play. Brady, always gracious, obliged and left his mark on the football with a special inscription commemorating the momentous occasion.
The autographed football quickly gained traction on social media, capturing the attention of football fans and animal lovers alike. Brady and Ryan, known for their commitment to animal welfare causes, decided to use this opportunity to make a difference. Inspired by their shared passion for helping animals in need, Ryan made the heartfelt decision to auction the historic football through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds benefiting the Ryan Animal Rescue Foundation (RARF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting animal welfare.
The Wilson “Duke” ball, photomatched to Brady’s final pass as a Patriot, carries a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from PSA/DNA, ensuring its provenance and significance. Additionally, a Letter of Provenance signed by Logan Ryan accompanies the football, further solidifying its authenticity.
The upcoming auction presents a rare chance for collectors and fans to own a piece of football history while contributing to a worthy cause. Beyond the game-ending play, the football symbolizes new beginnings for the animals that will benefit from the auction and the legacy of the players involved. Ryan eloquently captures the essence of the auction, emphasizing that the ball represents more than a mere moment in a game—it embodies compassion, generosity, and the power to effect positive change in the lives of animals.
The auction for this iconic football is anticipated to draw significant interest, given its unique provenance and the charitable purpose it serves. Interested bidders can participate in the auction through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds directly supporting RARF’s mission of improving the welfare of animals in need.
This auction not only commemorates a pivotal moment in football history but also underscores the enduring commitment of athletes like Ryan and Brady to giving back to the community in impactful ways. By leveraging their platform for a noble cause, they exemplify the profound impact that sports can have beyond the field, creating a lasting legacy of compassion and kindness.
