Humphries says Brady's age played role in decision to sign with Titans
Any player would consider it an honor to catch a ball from Tom Brady, but former Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Adam Humphries says the quarterback's age was a factor in his decision to ultimately sign with the Tennessee Titans.
"Obviously, (Brady's) the GOAT. That's that simple," Humphries said, according to The Athletic's Travis Haney. "But there's so much that factors into a decision. It was a four-year deal. Who knows how many (years) he's got left?
"Obviously the chance to play with him would have been awesome, but a lot of things factor into that decision. Ultimately, I thought this was coming here to a team that was on the rise and with young talent on the offense and a really good defense. They'd had a taste of the playoffs. I felt like my need at the slot position was great. I felt like I could really contribute and start something new here."
The New England Patriots reportedly targeted both Humphries and Cole Beasley during free agency. Humphries - who reached an agreement with Tennessee before receiving a call from New England - signed with the Titans on a four-year contract worth $36 million. Beasley joined the Bills on a four-year, $29-million deal.
The Patriots ultimately drafted N'Keal Harry in the first round of the draft to address their thin receiving corps.
Although factors on the field were a major part of Humphries' decision, the 25-year-old admitted life off the field played a role in him landing with the Titans.
"You have to look at both situations and a quality of life and where you’re living, state taxes," he said. "A lot of things go into it when you're talking with your agents and families and stuff about it. At the end of the day, my heart wanted to be in Tennessee. I was happy to finally have that all over with and have a team I could commit to and try my best for them.
"I felt like my talents would be used best here. And New England was the same way. That would have worked, too, but at the end of the day, it was a good decision to come here."
Humphries recorded 76 catches, 816 receiving yards, and five touchdowns in 2018, all career highs.