Tom Brady’s last pass as a New England Patriot holds more significance than most football plays. While intercepted by Logan Ryan of the Tennessee Titans during the 2020 AFC Wild Card Game, this moment marked the end of an era for Brady and the Patriots. Now, this iconic football is taking on a new role – raising funds for animal welfare.
In the waning moments of the game, with the Patriots pinned on their one-yard line, Brady’s pass intended for Mohamed Sanu met an unexpected fate. The ball was tipped and swiftly intercepted by Ryan, who ran it back for a touchdown, solidifying the Titans’ win and closing the chapter on Brady’s 20-year legacy with the Patriots.
Following Brady’s move to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a twist of fate saw both Brady and Ryan become teammates once again. During their time together in Tampa, Ryan approached Brady to autograph the football from that pivotal play. Inscribed with “Last Pass As A Patriot,” “1/4/20,” and “Logan Ryan INT,” the football quickly gained traction on social media, becoming a viral sensation.
Beyond their football careers, Brady and Ryan, along with their families, share a deep commitment to animal welfare causes. Volunteering at the Tampa Bay Humane Society, the two families have actively supported animal rescue efforts, with the Brady family even welcoming a kitten into their home. Inspired by this shared passion, Ryan has chosen to auction the historic football through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds benefiting the Ryan Animal Rescue Foundation (RARF), a nonprofit organization founded by Ryan and his wife, Ashley.
The football itself, a Wilson “Duke” ball, has been authenticated as the one from Brady’s final pass as a Patriot and is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from PSA/DNA. Additionally, a Letter of Provenance signed by Logan Ryan further validates the football’s authenticity and historical significance.
The upcoming auction presents a unique chance for collectors and fans of Brady to own a piece of football history while contributing to a noble cause. Beyond being a symbol of a game-ending interception, the football signifies new beginnings, for the animals that will benefit from the auction and for the man who intercepted one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
Anticipated to attract significant interest, the auction for the football promises to be a thrilling event given its rich backstory and the charitable purpose it serves. Interested bidders can participate in the auction through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds directly supporting RARF’s mission to improve animal welfare.
This auction not only commemorates a pivotal sports moment but also showcases the enduring dedication of athletes like Ryan and Brady to make a positive impact on their communities, one football at a time.
