NFL fans can't believe Tom Brady got away with malicious tackle during Cowboys game

Tom Brady finds himself in the spotlight once again. But this time, for all the wrong reasons. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers crashed out of the NFL playoffs after a 31-14 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in the Wild Card round on Monday. The game, though, had its fair share of controversy.

In what was a frustrating night for Tampa Bay, Brady was spotted attempting what looked like a textbook soccer slide tackle on Cowboys' Malik Hooker. This came after wideout Chris Godwin fumbled the ball in the third quarter of the game.

TB12 slid foot-first into Hooker's legs with the intention of bringing him down but fell short. Julio Jones ultimately did so with a clean tackle, but fans weren't letting Brady get away with the attempted cheap shot:

The tackle, had it connected, would have definitely warranted a penalty on the Buccaneers. The intent was clearly to trip Hooker, which in itself should've resulted in a penalty. The referees, though, seemed to miss it.

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What does the future have in store for Tom Brady?

Following the Buccaneers' playoff loss, Tom Brady was posed questions about his future multiple times in the post-game press conference. The quarterback, who is about to hit free agency, has not declared whether or not he plans to return to Tampa Bay next season.

His lengthy monolog at the end of the game seems to hint at him having played his final game for the NFC South side:

“I just want to say thank you guys for everything this year. I really appreciate all your effort. And I know it’s hard for you guys, too. It’s hard for us players to make it through, and you guys got a tough job. And I appreciate all that you guys do to cover us and everyone who watches and is a big fan of the sport."

Brady continued:

"We’re very grateful for everyone’s support. You know, I love this organization. It’s a great place to be. I love everyone for welcoming me, all you regulars. And just very grateful for the respect, and I hope I gave the same thing back to you guys. So thank you very much.”

Multiple teams have been suggested as Tom Brady's possible next destination. The Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers, Las Vegas Raiders and Tennessee Titans are all teams that are likely to test the water once he hits free agency.