One year to the day after his first retirement announcement, Brady said on social media that he is officially and finally walking away from professional football, closing the book on an iconic career that spanned 23 NFL seasons, featured seven Super Bowl titles and cemented the 45-year-old quarterback as one of the sport's all-time greats.

"I know the process was a pretty big deal last time, so when I woke up this morning, I figured I'd just press record and let you guys know first. I won't be long-winded. You only get one super emotional retirement essay, and I used mine up last year."

Brady, who spent the final three seasons of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, then choked up as he proceeded to thank his family, friends and teammates.

"I could go on forever. There's too many (people to thank)," he said. "Thank you guys for allowing me to live my absolute dream. I wouldn't change a thing. Love you all."