NFL quarterback Tom Brady ditches Springbok support in favour of USA ahead of opening RWC game

New England Patriots quarterback and six-time Super Bowl winner Tom Brady surprised many last week with a Twitter message of support for the Springboks ahead of their Rugby World Cup campaign game against the All Blacks.

Ahead of the USA's opening game against England, the G.O.A.T has swung around with pressure from Patriots teammate and former US Sevens player Nate Ebner, who arranged for a special message for the USA eagles direct from the Patriots locker room.

"I actually got my guy here, he wanted to say something," Ebner says before introducing Brady.

"What's up guys, we are cheering you on," said Brady wearing a 'Back the Boys' USA Rugby t-shirt.

"It's a tough journey but if anyone can do it, you guys can."

"We support you, we love you, we got your back."

Patriots special teamer Ebner made a transfer to Sevens ahead of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and competed at the event in Brazil becoming the first active NFL player to participate in the Olympics.

Since being drafted by the Patriots in 2012, Ebner has won 3-Super bowl titles as part of their special teams unit. The collegiate rugby player considered playing professionally but reportedly did not have any contract offers. He was an MVP of the US age-grade under-19 and under-20 sides in 2007 and 2008 that competed at World Rugby's junior championships.

Rugby World Cup memories Gavin Hastings: