Tom Brady has been tipped not to see out his lucrative FOX NFL contract (Image: Michael Owens/Getty Images)

Tom Brady’s future with FOX NFL has been questioned since he bought a stake in the Las Vegas Raiders despite only signing his huge 10-year deal last year

Tom Brady became one of the NFL’s biggest non-playing recruits when he signed a bumper deal with FOX as a star analyst.

Brady has been a busy man since hanging up his helmet with seven Super Bowl rings in 2022, with stakes in other sports teams. He was recently confirmed as a part-owner in the Las Vegas Raiders and holds a small stake in English soccer club Birmingham City.

The 47-year-old has also invested in WNBA team Las Vegas Aces. However, it is his role with FOX where he is most visible, working with the likes of Terry Bradshaw and Michael Strahan. But how long will the supposed decade-long union last? Mirror US takes a look…

How much are FOX paying Tom Brady?

Brady was snapped up by FOX to much fanfare, signing a huge 10-year deal worth $375 million. Speaking in September, he said: “I want to be great at what I do, and talking with the people at FOX Sports and the leadership there, allowing me to start this opportunity in the Fall of 2024 is something that’s great for me.”

However, Brady’s analysis has not been well received by all, with some fans criticizing his work. In fact, some believe the New England Patriots legend winner will not be part of the network’s NFL coverage in three seasons’ time, according to recent a poll by Front Office Sports.

Given his global standing, it’s unthinkable that FOX would consider firing their star signing. However, given his other business interests, it’s possible he could quit to spend more time on other passions.

What rules must Tom Brady follow?

Brady’s involvement with the Raiders requires him to adhere to strict rules. The guidelines mean he cannot criticise teams and referees and is prohibited from entering team facilities or attending practices.

He cannot participate in pregame production meetings with teams and must comply with the league’s gambling and tampering policies. The ban on him attending pregame meetings has proved controversial as they provide broadcasters with crucial context for viewers.

The Dallas Cowboys have expressed their willingness for Brady to still be involved in theirs, but league regulations override any potential exception being made. However, surprisingly to some, he can still call Raiders games, despite his financial interest in the team.

Will Tom Brady see out of FOX contract?

His recently confirmed involvement with the Raiders has muddied the waters over his future. Before Brady’s part-ownership was given the green light, there were delicate discussions between Raiders owner Mark Davis and FOX Sports CEO Eric Shanks.

Davis stressed to Shanks that Brady’s role would not overtly affect his media work. Per Front Office Sports, he said: “He communicates quite often [with the ownership group], but it’s not a day-to-day role. His role is undefined right now.”

However, if his Raiders role becomes more hands-on, Brady may need to step away from his FOX duties long before the end of his lucrative contract. That is the view of former MLB executive David Samson, who is adamant he will choose the Raiders over FOX if he is forced to make a decision.

Tom Brady’s role with the Las Vegas Raiders could see him leaving FOX NFL (Image: Getty Images)

The ex-Miami Marlins president said on the Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz: “Tom Brady is running that team right now – the NFL knows it and FOX knows it and something has got to give. So enjoy Tom in the booth because you’re not going to see him there next year.

“He will be in the Raiders front office, he will not return as an analyst for FOX – you cannot be this involved in the operation of a team and be the No.1 analyst. It’s an absolute insult to analysts what he’s doing. And it’s an insult to the team president what he’s doing.

“You end up doing both of them in a mediocre way – and I promise you he will choose the Raiders. Tom Brady will not be with FOX next season; he’ll be full-time in the Raiders front office running that team. Period.”

Terry Bradshaw advice

It’s fair to say Brady’s move into analysis wasn’t seamless. In meetings with bosses, he was reportedly advised to stick to in-game commentary rather than addressing wide issues in the NFL.

He also turned to long-time analyst Bradshaw for help. The 30-year FOX veteran revealed on Today in October: “Tom did say, ‘hey look, if you could give me some any advice at all, I really value what you have to say’ and I really appreciated that.”