Seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady recently shared his perspective on the ongoing debate surrounding penalties called in favor of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. During an appearance on FOX Sports’ "The Herd," the 47-year-old Brady argued that quarterbacks who choose to run like running backs should not expect the same level of protection typically afforded to passers in the pocket.

Brady’s comments come in the wake of two controversial calls that benefited Mahomes during the Chiefs' recent victory against the Houston Texans. One involved a roughing the passer penalty against Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. for a hit near Mahomes' head. The other, and the one Brady seems to be referencing specifically, occurred when Mahomes was hit by two Texans defenders as he slid during a scramble. Texans linebacker Henry To’oTo’o received an unnecessary roughness penalty on the play.

Brady emphasized the need for offensive players, including quarterbacks, to take responsibility for their own safety. He highlighted the inherent aggressiveness involved in defensive plays aimed at creating turnovers, stating that defenders must apply force to dislodge the ball. He suggested that if quarterbacks don't want to be hit, they should slide or run out of bounds, but they shouldn't expect defenders to hold back for fear of penalties.

Brady expressed concern that defenders playing cautiously due to penalty concerns detracts from the overall quality of the game. He believes this hesitancy creates an unfair advantage for quarterbacks who run and ultimately impacts the integrity of the sport. He stopped short of accusing anyone of exploiting the rules but urged a reevaluation of the current situation.

The officiating in the upcoming AFC Championship game between the Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills will undoubtedly be under intense scrutiny, particularly concerning any calls involving Mahomes.