Can Tom Brady handle Patrick Mahomes in the booth? Critics say the GOAT’s analyst career is on thin ice

The NFL legend’s struggles in the booth raise questions about his future as an analyst.

Patrick Mahomes will play this week under the watchful eye of Tom Brady.LAPRESSE

Tom Brady may be the greatest quarterback of all time, but his transition to sports analyst has not gone as smoothly as his career on the field. Amid growing criticism for his lackluster delivery, the seven-time Super Bowl champion faces a pivotal test this Sunday-analyzing Patrick Mahomes’ performance against the San Francisco 49ers.

Fox Sports announced Brady’s arrival with high expectations, pairing him with lead play-by-play commentator Kevin Burkhardt. Brady made his debut in Week 1 during the Dallas Cowboys’ matchup against the Cleveland Browns, but the reviews were far from glowing. Viewers found him “boring,” with many suggesting his nerves got the best of him.

Six weeks in, the criticism hasn’t let up. And now, Brady is set to call one of the most highly anticipated games of the season-a rematch of Super Bowl LVIII between the 49ers and Chiefs.

Can Brady critically break down Mahomes?

One of the biggest knocks on Brady’s performance so far has been his hesitation to critique coaches and fellow quarterbacks.

Industry insiders believe the former quarterback needs to sharpen his analysis by explaining the “how” and “why” behind key plays-a skill essential for providing deeper insights into Sunday’s game, which will feature two marquee quarterbacks: Patrick Mahomes and Brock Purdy.

If Brady can overcome his reluctance to offer pointed criticism, his unparalleled experience could add real value. Fans want to hear his take on Mahomes’ uncharacteristic struggles this season, along with insights on how Chiefs coach Andy Reid has managed his depleted receiving corps after losing Marquise Brown and Rashee Rice.

Additionally, viewers are eager for Brady’s honest thoughts on Purdy’s role in Kyle Shanahan’s offense-whether the young quarterback is simply a game manager or an integral part of the 49ers’ success.

The time to overcome stage fright is now

It’s hard to believe that after seven Super Bowl wins and countless comeback victories, Brady could still be battling nerves. Yet, his stiff demeanor and overly serious approach in the booth-especially during exchanges with Burkhardt-suggest otherwise.

Although Brady is still adjusting to life in front of the camera, fans and critics alike expect much more from him. With a career built on thriving under pressure, it’s time for the GOAT to find his groove-and Sunday’s showdown might just be the perfect moment for Brady to silence the doubters.