The New England Patriots continued to attract the type of attention they despise this week when two of their biggest star players did not show up for voluntary workouts, but team owner Robert Kraft insists there is no trouble in paradise.
While speaking with reporters on Wednesday morning, Kraft downplayed the absences of Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski at organized team activities. When asked why Brady chose not to attend for the first time in years, Kraft noted that the workouts are voluntary and mentioned how the 40-year-old quarterback has a family.
#Patriots owner Robert Kraft says that he’s been in communication with Tom Brady. “These are voluntary workouts… I think he’s in great shape. I think he’s at an age where he’s blessed to have 3 children, has responsibilities. It’s hard to fulfill those during the season.”
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 23, 2018
Kraft also said there is no rift between Brady and Bill Belichick. He’s confident both Brady and Gronkowski will be at mandatory minicamp next month.
#Patriots owner Robert Kraft says Tom Brady is excited about being at minicamp… a confirmation that he’ll be there. On the relationship between Belichick, “nothing’s changed. Everything is good.”
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 23, 2018
#Patriots owner Robert Kraft says Rob Gronkowski will be there for minicamp, as well. Sounds confident in the outcome.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 23, 2018
Brady himself has spoken in the past about the importance of attending voluntary workouts, so it’s hard to believe his only motive is to spend more time with his family. There has been talk that both he and Gronkowski want new contracts, and there have been plenty of reports about the drama involving Belichick and Brady’s personal trainer. It makes sense that Kraft is doing all he can to downplay things, but it’s not a reach to say the relationship between Belichick and some of his key players has been strained.
