When football fans debate greatness, Tom Brady’s name always comes up. But before he became an NFL legend, many fans still wonder: what round was Tom Brady drafted? The answer speaks volumes about perseverance, underestimation, and the unpredictability of the NFL Draft.

The Infamous 2000 NFL Draft: Brady’s Humble Beginning

Tom Brady was not an early pick. In fact, he waited anxiously as round after round passed in the 2000 NFL Draft. The New England Patriots eventually selected him in the sixth round, 199th overall. This decision would change the course of football history. Despite an impressive college career at Michigan, Brady was overlooked by almost every team. According to talkSPORT, Brady even worried he'd need to pursue another profession if he wasn't chosen.

Why Did Brady Slide in the Draft?

Many scouts doubted Brady’s athleticism and speed. Mel Kiper Jr., an NFL draft expert, described Brady as smart and accurate, but questioned his mobility. It’s surprising now to think that teams favored others over an eventual seven-time Super Bowl champion. In fact, the Patriots themselves passed on him several times before making the historic pick. Their own executives admitted the pick wasn't part of a master plan, but Brady was simply the best player left on their board as the sixth round progressed (talkSPORT).

A Draft Moment That Changed the NFL

Selecting Tom Brady in the sixth round didn’t immediately make headlines. But as Yahoo Sports highlights, the league and its fans never forgot the value found at pick number 199. Brady soon replaced Drew Bledsoe after an injury, helping the Patriots rise to dominance. Over 21 seasons, he would appear in ten Super Bowls and win seven, rewriting records and expectations for late-round prospects.

Patriots and the Legacy of Pick 199

On the 25th anniversary of his draft, the Patriots reflected on how the 199th pick became perhaps the best decision in franchise history. Brady led the team to six Super Bowl victories and became synonymous with the New England dynasty. You can relive those pivotal draft moments and see how the Patriots honored him in their official tribute.

Why Brady’s Draft Story Still Inspires

The story of what round Tom Brady was drafted serves as powerful inspiration. Hundreds of prospects hope to hear their names called each year, but Brady’s rise from the 199th pick proves that resilience and determination can overcome any odds. The draft doesn’t always get it right—true legends can emerge from anywhere on the board.

Conclusion

So, when people ask, "What round was Tom Brady drafted?" remember this: He was a sixth-round, 199th overall pick—an underdog who became the greatest ever. His journey is a reminder for athletes everywhere that draft position is only the beginning. For more on Brady’s incredible rise and his lasting impact, explore stories from both Yahoo Sports and the Patriots’ own retrospective.