In his 23rd NBA season, LeBron James continues to defy Father Time, performing at an All-Star level at an age when most players have either retired or are mere shadows of their former selves.
James’ remarkable longevity and sustained excellence have earned him admiration across the sports world, including from seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady.
During a recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Brady was asked about James and didn’t hesitate to express his respect — and even floated the idea that LeBron could have had a long, successful NFL career.
“Hell yeah, I’d take him,” Brady said of James. “Him and Gronk on the same team. I don’t know if he would’ve lasted 23 years playing… he actually could last 23 years. He’s ridiculous. I’ve always looked up to him and how he’s handled himself on the court and off the court. He’s another guy like Derek Jeter. He just elevates himself above everybody else. He’s such a class act. He’s a great dad. You see his son out there playing. What a dream come true for a dad.”
Brady’s High Praise for LeBron’s Athleticism and Discipline
Brady’s comments highlight two things: James’ extraordinary physical condition and his professionalism. The fact that a quarterback widely regarded as the greatest in NFL history believes LeBron could have played two decades in football speaks volumes about James’ rare combination of size, speed, strength, and work ethic.
James was a standout wide receiver in high school at St. Vincent-St. Mary. As a sophomore, he recorded 42 receptions for 752 yards and 11 touchdowns. In his junior year, he followed that up with 57 catches for 1,160 yards and 16 touchdowns. He earned First Team All-Ohio honors both years and was considered a top wide receiver prospect in the state, with reported interest from programs like Ohio State and Notre Dame.
He ultimately chose to focus exclusively on basketball in his senior year. Had he pursued football, many believe he had the tools to reach the NFL. At 6-foot-9 and with elite speed and athleticism, James possessed the physical profile that translates well to the next level.
The Reality of NFL Longevity
Brady also acknowledged the extreme difficulty of playing two decades in the NFL, especially given the sport’s brutal physical demands and high injury risk. As a quarterback, Brady himself benefited from a position that allows elite players to extend their careers well into their late 30s and even 40s with proper care and scheme protection.
Still, the fact that Brady — who knows better than almost anyone what it takes to sustain excellence over 23 seasons — sees LeBron as someone who could have done the same in football is the highest form of respect.
LeBron’s Legacy Continues to Grow
James is already the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and has rewritten the record books in numerous categories. His ability to maintain elite performance at age 41 is unprecedented. Off the court, his business acumen, family commitment, and leadership have made him one of the most respected athletes of his generation.
The chance to play alongside his son Bronny has added another emotional layer to his late-career story. For a father who has always prioritized family, seeing Bronny earn meaningful minutes has been a dream come true.
Final Thoughts
Tom Brady’s comments are a powerful reminder of LeBron James’ transcendent athleticism and discipline. While we’ll never know what kind of NFL career he could have had, the fact that one of the greatest quarterbacks ever believes he could have lasted 23 years in football says everything about how special James has been.
In the NBA, LeBron continues to write his legend one game at a time. Whether he returns for another season or decides this is his final chapter, his impact on the sport — and on athletes across all codes — is undeniable.
NBA and NFL fans alike, what stands out most to you about Tom Brady’s praise for LeBron James? Do you think LeBron could have been a star in the NFL, or was basketball always the right path?
LeBron’s greatness transcends one sport. His longevity, work ethic, and class continue to set the standard for what elite athletes can achieve.