QB Tom Brady had good news for Patriots fans at a Monday charity even in Boston. Joining with his endorser, beverage maker smartwater, Brady helped raise $30,000 for the Boston Centers for Youth and Families while also raising New England fans' spirits by telling reporters at the event that he would not need offseason surgery to deal with the finger, rib or shoulder injuries that bothered him throughout the 2009 season. "Just bumps and bruises over the course of the year," Brady said, a year removed from last winter's recovery from major reconstructive knee surgery. "We all deal with those. I'm feeling good. I really am. I'm excited I don't have to have surgery this offseason. A year ago at this time there were all these concerns about whether I was going to play this year. It's nice to be in an offseason where I really feel I can get started right away." Brady, who is entering the final year of his contract in New England, also talked a bit about his status and potential for an extension. "We're all way overpaid," Brady said. "I love playing. We're all fortunate to play. We all have the greatest job in the world, and I have the greatest job in the world. I love being here. I love Boston. I love the city. I love the community." Added Brady, "I'm under contract. I signed a six-year contract five years ago. There's a lot players that end up being in my situation. There is a lot of uncertainty in the league. As a player rep now, I realize all the issues that our league faces. It's a really unique time in our league. As a team player, I don't sit and here and say, 'What about me? What about me?' I'm under contract. I'll go out there and play and play my butt off." 12/7/2010

Brady said Monday he won't need surgery for rib and finger injuries that bothered him for much of the season.
01/25/2010