UO researchers talk to Reuters about Tom Brady's longevity

On Sunday, Tom Brady won his fifth Super Bowl, the most ever for a quarterback in the NFL. But at the age of 39, how much longer can he keep it up?

According to Mike Hahn and Jacob Hinkel-Lipsker of the UO’s Bowerman Sports Science Clinic, the answer is probably at least a few more seasons, thanks to an efficient style of play and a team situation dedicated to his protection. The Reuters news service interviewed the two researchers for a story that was picked up by many outlets.

“Brady has done well to ride the peak performance stage most athletes have from their late 20s to early-mid 30s. His (throwing) form is classic and he’s constantly aware of where he’s at and playing 100 percent within his comfort zone,” Hahn said. “It’s no coincidence he hasn’t been injured more, and you’ve got to credit the Patriots for the way they’ve put together a team around him.”

However, none of this guarantees that Brady will actually stay healthy.

“Playing in the NFL is a ticking time bomb with your body,” Hinkel-Lipsker said. “At some point you are going to take a hit.”

For the full article, see “Brady good for several more seasons, say science experts” on Reuters.

Hahn is the director of the Bowerman clinic in addition to teaching courses in biomechanics and capstone research at the UO. Hinkel-Lipsker is a first-year doctoral student who is currently studying the neural control of prosthetic feet.