Even though the New England Patriots began their season with a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, fans at Gillette Stadium were treated to a halftime show honoring six-time Patriots Super Bowl Champion Tom Brady. 

"One thing I am sure of, and that will never change, is that I am a Patriot for life," Brady declared in his speech, as he wore his old Patriots No. 12 jersey.

Team owner Robert Kraft announced that he is waiving the standard four-year waiting period for team Hall of Famers and inducting Brady at a special ceremony that will take place on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, inside Gillette Stadium -- the first of its kind for the franchise. 

The date has notable significance, as 6/12 reflects the number of Super Bowls that Brady won as a Patriot and his jersey number.

Those eligible for the Patriots Hall of Fame have to be retired for at least four years, per the rules set forth by the team to ensure that an inductee doesn't suddenly become an active player. 

The Patriots have held an annual team Hall of Fame ceremony every year since 2007, and there are 34 inductees currently in the team's Hall. 

A committee comprised of media members, team employees and former players and coaches annually nominates deserving individuals for consideration, and three finalists are voted upon. Those three finalists are then put up for a fan vote, with one selected.

There are times, however, when Kraft chooses to make an exception. And Tom Brady is that exception.