Latest Buzz Sounds Like Tom Brady Isn't Returning to the Patriots

Patriots fans have been anxiously awaiting for a positive update on Tom Brady's future with the team. Unfortunately for them, the latest buzz is sure to have fans in panic mode.

Multiple reports early Thursday morning suggest that it would be a significant surprise if Brady ended up back in Foxborough for the 2020 campaign.

The strong buzz in Indy this week is that Tom Brady won’t return to the Patriots. Will be first domino to fall in QB musical chairs. #NFLCombine
— Vic Tafur (@VicTafur) February 27, 2020

The Athletic's Vic Tafur claims that there's "strong buzz" at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis that Brady's tenure in New England will come to an end.

ESPN's Jeff Darlington seems to resonate with that sentiment. During a Thursday appearance on "Get Up," Darlington claimed he'd be "stunned" if Brady returned to the Patriots.

ESPN’s @JeffDarlington on @GetUpESPN: “I’m now at the point where I would be stunned if Tom Brady went back to New England.”
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 27, 2020

Darlington suggested the 42-year-old QB was excited about the prospect of hitting the open market for the first time in his career. Brady is looking for a big final payday in the league after years of taking salary cuts for the benefit of the Patriots.

The rumors of Brady's departure are even coming from local sources. Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald further fueled the buzz by reporting that the Patriots had yet to even reach out to Brady.

The Patriots still have not reached out to Tom Brady. According to a source, “it’s not looking good”
— Karen Guregian (@kguregian) February 27, 2020

While Brady was widely anticipated to test free agency, the latest rumors suggest he isn't set on returning to the Patriots, opening the door for the various other teams who would be interested in adding the six-time champ.