Tom Brady isn't afraid to admit age is catching up to him, albeit rather slowly

It wouldn't be a big statement for most NFL teams to sign a third-string quarterback to their roster midseason. But when the New England Patriots did that on Wednesday, it made a large enough statement that can also be used as a harsh reminder - Tom Brady is getting old.

The Patriots signed Cody Kessler to their active roster this week. But it wasn't' because one of New England's quarterbacks is too injured to play in a game. It was because their 42 year old starter needs some rest during the week.

Once the Patriots released QB Brian Hoyer, and went with 2 QBs, there was always a chance of bringing in a third QB for depth. The balance was that the club didn't want to take away practice reps from Jarrett Stidham. But if Tom Brady takes some days off, it helps to have 3rd QB.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) September 25, 2019

As ESPN's Mike Reiss says, the team needs QBs for practice purposes in the event that Brady needs a day off. Brady was listed in the first Patriots-Bills injury report of the week with a calf injury, so what better week to bring in an extra QB and give the veteran some time off?

Brady began not showing up to New England's voluntary offseason workouts last year, which was not only done so he could spend time with his family, but to also allow his aging body more time to recover. While he did skip those same workouts this past offseason, it looks like him getting extended rest during the week leading up to regular season games is something we may see additionally going forward.

"Football is a contact sport, Brady said via ESPN's Mike Reiss on Wednesday during a press conference. "I wouldn’t say I’m a spring chicken anymore. I’m trying to just feel as great as I can and we’ll see how it goes tomorrow. But I feel pretty good.”

How much of an impact does not being on the practice field have on Brady in his preparation? Probably not a whole lot. His chemistry with Julian Edelman, Josh Gordon, and Phillip Dorsett, all who are the team's top wideouts/targets in the passing game, is spot on, which does not need added time spent on it during midweek practice reps.

Maybe this is a way for Brady to avoid looking bad against the Patriots' elite defense during practice? Who knows. What we do know is that New England wants to keep their future Hall of Fame quarterback healthy, and at this point in his career it means taking some practices off. So be it.