Tom Brady has faced backlash after making a remark about kicking a dog during a live Fox Sports broadcast of the Dallas Cowboys versus Chicago Bears game on Sunday.
During the fourth quarter, Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens dropped the ball and reacted by slamming his helmet on the ground. Brady commented: 'And [George Pickens] is not happy, yeah those moments can be… just like the dog at home. Kick the dog, throw the helmet, whatever it takes.'
Viewers took to social media to criticise the comment, with some accusing Brady of encouraging animal abuse. One user wrote: 'Kick the dog? What’s wrong with you, Tom Brady? We don’t harm or encourage violence against animals, please do better.' Another questioned: 'Tom Brady casually mentioning he beats his dog when frustrated?'
However, some defended Brady, arguing that 'kick the dog' is a common metaphor. One person said: 'As somebody that would fight to death to protect a dog’s life from abuse, I really think it’s just an expression (albeit a bad one) and not evidence that Tom Brady actually kicks dogs.'
The Independent has contacted a representative for Brady for comment. Brady is in his second season as an analyst on Fox Sports after a legendary NFL career with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, winning seven Super Bowls.
