Zdeno Chara has built a close relationship with Tom Brady since joining the Boston Bruins in 2006, so he was as sad as anyone to see the longtime New England Patriots quarterback go.
On Sunday, the Boston Bruins defenseman wrote an emotional note on Instagram thanking Brady for all he's done for New England over the last 20 years.
It’s with sadness and joy I find myself reflecting on the news of my friend and sports legend @TomBrady moving on from the @Patriots.
For New England and it’s fan base, Tom’s departure is a major loss to the role he plays in leading the incredible Patriots. His 20 years have brought us all some of the most memorable moments in sports history. His departure leaves us with mixed feelings. We feel a loss but we also hope that he continues to have an outstanding career.
Thank you Tom for the best 20 years of New England sports memories. Your leadership, athletic achievements and your contributions to Boston will forever be remembered by many generations. I wish you all the best. We will be watching and cheering you on!
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Chara, who turned 43 years old on Wednesday, has raved about Brady on numerous occasions. One of those instances came during the 2019 Stanley Cup Final, when Brady narrated one of Chara's hype videos. Chara called the 42-year-old QB "a true professional and a great human being."
With Brady leaving for Tampa Bay, Chara becomes Boston's oldest athlete by a significant margin. The next closest player in age is 36-year-old Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia.