Tom Brady's cryptic tweet reportedly not related to football future

With one image and not a single word to accompany it, Tom Brady had the football world eating out of the palm of his hand Thursday.

Online sleuths and conspiracy theorists from every corner tried to decipher what the image meant for Brady's football career. Is he retiring? Is he leaving the New England Patriots? Is he walking into Gillette Stadium?

The hysteria appears to be unwarranted, however, as ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the picture is not related to Brady's immediate playing career.

The 42-year-old quarterback and 20-year vet is set to become a free agent for the first time this March. He has said he intends to continue his career, whether with the Patriots or another team.