Tom Brady is facing criticism after using a derogatory term on live TV while discussing Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen. During a broadcast of the Bills versus Seahawks game, Brady described Allen’s playing style by saying, “Sometimes he played like a sp*z, like a grade-schooler on a sugar high, but now he’s controlled the chaos.” The term, derived from “sp*stic,” has historically been used in a derogatory way towards people with disabilities, which sparked outrage among viewers.
Social media users quickly responded, pointing out that the phrase is considered highly offensive. One user expressed shock at hearing it on air, while another commented that someone needed to inform Brady that using such language is inappropriate on TV. The backlash echoed similar situations involving Beyoncé and Lizzo, who both faced criticism for using the term in their songs and later removed it from their tracks.
Brady’s transition from playing to broadcasting has been rocky, despite signing a substantial 10-year, $375 million deal with Fox Sports. This incident has added to the challenges of his new career, as fans previously criticized his commentating debut in September. At the time of reporting, Brady’s representatives had not yet responded to the controversy.