As if Tom Brady needs the extra help.

During the Patriots’ beatdown of the Dolphins last week, an official warned Miami linebacker Raekwon McMillan to back off the six-time Super Bowl winner following a legal hit.

“Tom didn’t say anything but the referee said, ‘Stay off Tom,'” McMillan told the Miami Herald. “I put my hands up in the air and said, ‘I got you.’”

The ref’s demand doesn’t come as a complete surprise, as the NFL over the last few seasons has taken more steps to protect its quarterbacks.

That should help Brady in his continuing quest to play until 50.