Everyone in the NFL world knows the story of how Tom Brady went from the 199th pick to the greatest player ever, but almost no one saw that coming. There was one mentor of Brady’s at Michigan who saw this coming before everyone else. Sadly, Brady’s mentor at Michigan Greg Harden passed away.
Harden not only made an incredible impact on Brady himself but on countless people throughout his entire life. Just like many others in the Michigan football family, Brady is sharing in the heartbreak from this loss.
Tom Brady Heartbroken by Death of Greg Harden
Harden began his career with the Michigan program back in 1986, and throughout his career, he was a mentor to many incredible athletes. Beyond Brady, Harden also worked with both Desmond Howard and Michael Phelps. He was not only incredibly successful at what he did, but he made a real impact on all of these athletes’ lives.
Brady revealed a few years ago that the main reason he decided to stay at Michigan, even though he was not getting the starting job, was because of Harden and what he meant to the legend. He credited Harden with being fundamental to how Brady changed his mentality from a victim to a competitor, and the Man in The Arena:
“It was a lot of tough competition and I really had to grow up. I think Greg recognized the state of mind where I was thinking, ‘Is there an easier path for me?’ Greg helped me realize that the path that was best for me was to learn how to take on the obstacles I was facing and to do the best that I could,” Brady explained, via The Detroit News.
Of course, Brady is heartbroken over the news of Harden’s death, as he was a mentor, friend, and a true loved one of Brady’s for decades.
“I’m so sad to hear the news of Greg’s passing,” Brady said. “I’m heartbroken as he was a dear friend and mentor. There are so many beautiful qualities Greg had that endeared him to so many people over his years at Michigan. He meant the world to me and I could never have had the success I had without the time, energy, love and support he had given me. He will be truly missed.”
The University is feeling the loss and what Harden meant to their entire community at large. He is survived by his wife and family.
“During his time at Michigan, Harden became known in many circles as the school’s ‘Secret Weapon’ for his work behind the scenes helping Wolverines athletes achieve peak performances,” the University of Michigan said. “In the future, they look forward to celebrating Greg’s life with many who were blessed to know him.”
From all of us at Gridiron, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his larger Michigan family. It is truly remarkable to see the Impact that Harden had over his career on so many, and we can all carry on Hardens’ philosophy about life and success, physically and mentally:
Greg Harden’s self-defeating behaviors: pic.twitter.com/COSL5I1z2R
— Peter Mallouk (@PeterMallouk) February 20, 2024
Greg Harden, Man Who Positively Touched So Many Lives, Passes Away
» https://t.co/CkofLmz8by pic.twitter.com/zXhr0Q2s74
— Michigan Athletics 〽️ (@UMichAthletics) September 13, 2024
Coach Harbaugh on the passing of University of Michigan legend Greg Harden pic.twitter.com/EGt7hNbZjx
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) September 13, 2024
The Michigan Athletic Department is deeply saddened to share the passing of Greg Harden pic.twitter.com/S93mzjXQGr
— Michigan Athletics 〽️ (@UMichAthletics) September 13, 2024
Greg Harden was a wonderful man who had an amazing way with words. He truly was an inspiration. Everything he said or wrote takes on even greater meaning now that he is no longer with us.
It's a sad day for @UMichAthletics and college athletics.pic.twitter.com/vDOLLCxYfd
— Brian Boesch (@BrianBoesch) September 13, 2024
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