Tom Brady is making it clear where his priorities stand after recent headlines linked him to social media star Alix Earle, with sources now offering mixed perspectives on their much-discussed interaction.

While online chatter has fueled relationship speculation, Brady himself says his focus remains firmly on work and his children.

Speaking at the Fanatics Studios launch party at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles on Tuesday, the 48-year-old NFL legend addressed his personal life directly. 

“You know what? I don’t have much time for a personal life or much time for myself, but I love working and I love my kids,” Brady told PEOPLE. 

He added that staying busy keeps him fulfilled, noting that he’s currently involved in several projects with teams he believes are doing positive work.

The renewed attention comes after Brady rang in New Year’s Eve in St. Barts, where he was seen partying with Earle, 25. 

According to a Page Six source, the pair appeared close at a yacht party and at one point stepped away from the larger group to talk privately.

Another insider echoed that account, saying they spent much of the night together chatting.

A separate source told Us Weekly that Brady and Earle met through mutual friends while in St. Barts and felt an “instant connection.” 

The source added, “There was a lot of chemistry between them,” but stressed, “It’s nothing serious between her and Tom, but they were together laughing, dancing and partying, enjoying themselves.” 

The same source claimed Brady was hesitant about public attention yet “didn’t want to leave her side.”

Still, not everyone close to Brady is convinced. 

An insider quoted by National Enquirer columnist Rob Shuter claimed, “Everyone in his circle is buzzing about how Alix is way too thirsty,” suggesting the retired quarterback may be wary of her intentions.

For now, Brady’s public message remains consistent: work, family, and staying fulfilled come first, regardless of the rumours swirling around him.