Tom Brady apologizes for comparing the NFL to ‘a military deployment’

Why did the NFL fine Tom Brady? 0:54 (CNN) — Tom Brady has apologized for a “really poor choice of words” after comparing playing in the NFL to a military deployment. “Earlier this week, I made a statement about playing football and the military and it was a very poor choice of words,” Brady told reporters during a regularly scheduled news conference Thursday. “And I just want to express that to whatever feelings there are, to people who may have taken it a certain way, so I apologize. I have great gratitude for everyone who served and in the end playing a game and the military defending our country are two very different things and I shouldn’t have made the comparison.” Brady made the comments about the military Monday as he spoke with co-host Jim Gray and NBA superstar Kevin Durant on their “Let’s Go!” podcast about the mentality that elite athletes require. Speaking about his work/life balance, the seven-time Super Bowl winner said, “I almost look at a football season like I’m going into the military. And it’s like, ‘Man, here I go again.'” At the news conference, Brady also fielded questions about his and his team’s form following the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ turbulent start to the season. The Bucs’ loss by 20-18 against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday moved their record to 3-3 on the season.The rocky start, combined with Brady’s departure before the preseason, reported marital problems and an 11-day leave of absence during the training sessions in the preseason “to deal with personal issues,” have raised questions about the quarterback’s long-term commitment to play. When asked about completing this NFL season, Brady joked, “That’s really the The reason I’m here, I’m here to announce that finally, you guys pushed me over the edge.”No, I think a lot of that for me is just us going out to, you know…” he continued more seriously. I love the companions of team and I want to do a great job for this team like I always have, so there will be no retirement in my future.” CNN’s Ben Morse and David Close contributed to this report.