It was a difficult start to the 2023 season for the New England Patriots. The hometown team dropped a close one to the defending NFC champs, the Philadelphia Eagles, 25-20.

Down 16-0 early, it looked like it might be a total lost cause. However, the Pats battled back to make it a one-score game at halftime.

The Eagles held a close lead throughout the second half, but a comedy of errors gave the Patriots numerous opportunities to take the lead late. But it was not to be, as the Philadelphia's defense came up with two big stops to allow the Eagles to escape with the victory.

The Patriots now find themselves 0-1 with a difficult week two matchup against the Miami Dolphins looming.

While the game was a difficult pill to swallow, the festivities surrounding it was anything but. And that's because the GOAT. Was. Back.

Tom Brady, the greatest NFL player of all time, was back in New England for the first time as a civilian since announcing his retirement earlier this year. The Patriots wasted no time in getting Brady back where he belongs, in front of tens of thousands of screaming New England fans.

Brady also helped christen the new stadium video screen, which is roughly the size of Rhode Island. And he rang the new stadium bell that helps fire up the Patriot faithful before opening kickoff.

But the fans truly got a treat at halftime when Brady took to the field for a quick ceremony.

Brady was joined by his family, friends, former teammates, and the Kraft family for this momentous occasion. And Bob Kraft made sure the fans would get a treat.

As you can hear in the video, Kraft has already decided Brady will be inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame early. Typically, there is a five-year waiting period after retirement, but IT'S TOM FREAKING BRADY. Of course you are going to waive the waiting period for the greatest player in the history of your sport.

It may have a been a few years since Brady wore the Patriot colors, but it's like he never left. It was something else to see him back in that 12 jersey.

Now we get to look forward to June 12 to see Brady receive his red sport coat at his induction ceremony. And then just a few more years before he gets that call to Canton.

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