By Kingsley NFL Icons Who Deserve a Statue — And Why Tom Brady Might Need Two
By Adam Rank | June 13, 2025
On August 8, NFL history will be etched in bronze as the New England Patriots unveil a statue of Tom Brady outside Gillette Stadium. After 20 seasons and six Super Bowl wins, the G.O.A.T. is finally getting a permanent tribute in Foxborough. But should that be the only statue of Brady? Some believe Tampa Bay owes him one too.
Statues are more than just metal—they’re symbols of legacy. And in an NFL era full of generational talent, here are five modern legends worthy of a place in stone:
—
Tom Brady – QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Yes, the Patriots are giving him a statue, but what about the Buccaneers? In just three seasons with Tampa Bay, Brady delivered the franchise’s second Super Bowl title and kicked off a streak of four straight NFC South crowns. His impact transcended the field—he changed the culture. If Peyton Manning has statues in multiple cities, why not Brady?
Aaron Donald – DL, Los Angeles Rams
Few defenders have been as dominant as Donald. Over a 10-year career, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year racked up 111 sacks—more than anyone else from 2014 to 2023. He anchored a Super Bowl-winning defense and defined an era in Rams football. A statue at SoFi Stadium? It’s only a matter of time.
J.J. Watt – DE, Houston Texans
Watt didn’t just play in Houston—he built the Texans’ identity. A three-time Defensive Player of the Year and franchise cornerstone, Watt helped bring playoff relevance to a young team. He’s already in Houston’s Ring of Honor and will be Hall of Fame-eligible in 2028. A statue seems like the next logical step.
Marshawn Lynch – RB, Seattle Seahawks
If one run could earn you a statue, it’s the “Beast Quake.” Lynch’s bruising playoff run in 2010 defined his tenure in Seattle, where he became the offensive heartbeat of a dominant era. While we’re at it, how about honoring the entire “Legion of Boom” secondary too?
—
Larry Fitzgerald – WR, Arizona Cardinals
Fitzgerald was the face of the Cardinals for nearly two decades. With 17,492 receiving yards (second only to Jerry Rice), 11 Pro Bowl nods, and unmatched sportsmanship, he is beloved across the league. His loyalty and excellence make him a deserving candidate for a statue outside State Farm Stadium.
—
As the NFL continues to celebrate its greats, these five names stand tall—ready to be cast in bronze for generations to admire.