Tom Brady and the “TOM TERRIFIC” Trademark Applications

In May 2019, Tom Brady’s company filed two intent-to-use trademark applications, seeking to register the nickname TOM TERRIFIC in connection with apparel, posters, and playing cards.  In those filings were declarations that Brady had a legitimate, good faith intent to use the TOM TERRFIFIC mark in commerce.  However, after receiving some criticism by loyal New York Mets fans – who claim that the nickname “Tom Terrific” has long belonged to famed pitcher Tom Seaver – Brady attempted to ease the pushback from critics, stating to reporters that he “didn’t like the nickname,” and was actually trying to “keep people from using it” in filing the underlying trademark applications.  Further, when asked whether the name would be used for merchandise, Brady answered, “I hope not.”  It will be interesting to see what unfolds relative to the underlying trademark applications in light of these events.