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Every NFL legend started as a rookie with dreams of making an impact on their team. As the 2025 NFL rookie class gears up for their first season, some legends surprised them with the help of Fanatics.
The surprise videos from NFL icons like Tom Brady, Barry Sanders, Joe Montana, Peyton and Eli Manning, Tim Brown, and Jerry Rice evoked strong emotions from this year’s rookies.
Image of Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrating after scoring a touchdown during a game against the Carolina Panthers in 2023. (Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
Fanatics captured the moment when Tennessee Titans’ top draft pick, quarterback Cam Ward, received words of wisdom from Brady himself.
“You’re gonna grow in ways you couldn’t even imagine, and I’m gonna be watching, and I’m always pulling for you,” Brady said to Ward.
Brady also offered advice to New England Patriots receiver Kyle Williams, who was overwhelmed with emotions upon finding a Brady-signed jersey under his seat.
Image of Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter running the ball during a team practice in 2025. (Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union)
Each rookie received a video and a signed jersey from either a legend who played for their team or a current veteran in their position.
For instance, Los Angeles Rams star receiver Puka Nacua shared words of encouragement with fellow Hawaiian receiver Tetairoa McMillan. Rice also spoke to Jacksonville Jaguars’ two-way star Travis Hunter.
“I wasn’t the most talented guy out there, but I had my work ethic, and I wasn’t going to let anyone outwork me,” Rice told Hunter.
“Way to be a top-five pick, man. We talked about it. You did it. Congratulations,” Dallas Cowboys star Micah Parsons said to New York Giants rookie Abdul Carter.
Image of Cam Ward #1 of the Tennessee Titans during the team’s training camp in 2025. (Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images)
Carter’s new teammate, running back Cam Skattebo, was moved to tears after receiving words of encouragement from Eddie George.
As these rookies continue their journey in training camp, they will absorb all the advice and information from these legends to pave their way to success.
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