When Namath played, QB play was quite different. Much more verticle against defenses that could beat the heck out of them and the WR's. I always hated the Jets but in his prime, Namath was a lot of fun to watch.
I despise Brady for all the reason a Bills fan could imagine. Yet, that the athletes are able respect each other and be friendly or friends is a great thing. It's something that our country has lost sight of, which is class and character.
I have no reason to doubt any of this, but I remain grateful that Thurman Thomas was an outlier in an earlier time when surgical techniques were not of today's standards. I think he had a pretty good, lengthy career as a RB (HOF).
If I recall correctly, Kelly did work out for Ted Marchibroda and the Ravens but Ted was straight with Jim and let him know that father time had caught him firmly.