And even then wasnt considered the best QB in the league. It wasnt until 2010ish tje people started comparing him to Manning. The Patriots defense stole the show. The guy had 3 titles before he even made an all pro team.
At the time that assessment was correct.
Brady was an above average "game manager" type at first.
Don't make mistakes. Do what you need to do. Let the running game and defense win for you.
It wasn't until 2007 when he got Moss that he found another couple gears.
From then on he was rightfully considered an elite QB until basically his retirement.