In a game that should have been about touchdowns and tackles, Tom Brady’s sideline commentary during the Bills–Seahawks matchup on Fox Sports on Sunday drew an unexpected level of attention – and not the kind he would have hoped for. As the former quarterback entered his debut season under a lucrative 10-year, $375 million broadcasting contract, his analysis of Josh Allen’s playing style became the talk of social media, but not for his insight into the Bills’ offensive strategies.

During the game’s opening quarter, Brady touched on Allen’s development as a quarterback, commenting that the two-time Pro Bowler had previously played with a “spaz” energy on the field, comparing it to “a grade-schooler on a sugar high.” Although Brady meant to highlight Allen’s growth into a more composed playmaker, his choice of words ignited immediate controversy. With the Bills leading 7-0 at that point, few could have predicted that Brady’s remark would overshadow Buffalo’s commanding win.

The term “spaz,” a shortened form of “spastic,” is recognized by many as an offensive term, particularly within the disability community, due to its ableist undertones. Traditionally, it has been used to describe individuals with medical conditions affecting movement or coordination, which is why the word has long sparked reactions when used as a casual descriptor. As Brady’s comments circulated online, viewers were quick to express their disapproval, with some labeling his phrasing “sickening vocabulary” and others calling it “highly offensive to people who have physical disabilities as well as their loved ones.”

On X, users didn’t hold back in addressing the perceived misstep. “The ‘spaz’ comment was uncalled for,” one viewer commented, echoing similar remarks from others who found the term to be needlessly insensitive. But not everyone took offense – some of Brady’s supporters argued that his intent was harmless, asserting that he was simply describing Allen’s unrefined playing style in his earlier career.

Brady’s slip echoes past controversies: Will he issue a formal apology?

This isn’t the first time a public figure has faced backlash over the term. In 2022, pop star Lizzo found herself in hot water after using “spaz” in her song “Grrrls.” Disability advocates, including writer Hannah Diviney, condemned the language, prompting the Grammy winner to issue an apology and remove the term from the track. Brady’s fans now wonder if he’ll follow suit and address the controversy with similar candor.

As Buffalo celebrated its 31-10 triumph over Seattle at Lumen Field, Brady’s comments remained a trending topic, casting a shadow over his professional debut in the broadcast booth. By game’s end, social media was flooded with reactions, some questioning Fox Sports’ decision to put Brady on air, while others called for a formal response from the seven-time Super Bowl champion himself.

For Brady, who is still finding his voice in a new role, this incident underscores the challenges of transitioning from the field to the commentary box. In an era where language is scrutinized more closely than ever, even unintentional slips can have significant repercussions.