New England Patriots: Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski not at OTA’s
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and tight end Rob Gronkowski did not attend OTA’s Monday.
The New England Patriots began their organized team activities on Monday. While these workouts are voluntary, most of the players usually attend. However, that will not be the case for the Patriots.
Quarterback Tom Brady will reportedly not be attending the OTA’s. NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport shared the news via his Twitter account.
#Patriots QB Tom Brady will not be present today for OTAs, source said. The wait continues.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 21, 2018
Since the Patriots season ended with a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 52, the Patriots have not seen much of Brady. He was not at their workouts about a month ago either, as he was in Qatar on business. His reasoning for not being at OTA’s seems to be a different matter.
While an exact reason has not been provided, there are a few sources that are under the impression that Brady is looking to make a statement by not attending.
Brady missing the start of OTAs is significant. Even back when he was living in LA, he'd be here for this part of the program, which is basically when football practices begin. Rare that a starting QB anywhere misses this piece of it.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) May 21, 2018
Bottom line: Tom Brady will be quarterbacking the Patriots next season.
— mike freeman (@mikefreemanNFL) May 21, 2018
But if you don’t think Brady isn’t making a statement by skipping offseason workouts he usually attends, you’re a fool.
Brady will be 41-years old when the 2018 regular season begins. Sitting out some offseason activities, which are voluntary, could be his way to reduce the wear and tear on his body. Entering his 19th season in the NFL, Brady could just be looking for some rest this offseason.
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Brady is still playing some great football despite his age. He took home the MVP award last season, completing 66.3 percent of his passes for 4,577 yards and 32 touchdowns compared to only eight interceptions. His 4,577 yards led the NFL.
Brady was also looking to change his offseason preparations this season, citing his family as a big reason for that. It could also be contract related.
According to Jeff Howe of The Athletic, Brady could be waiting for New England to approach him about adjusting his contract.
"“The reigning MVP, who turns 41 in August and has two seasons remaining on his contract, has been open to the idea of reworking his deal, and it appears he’d like the team to make the first move with those discussions.”"
Brady isn’t the only superstar that isn’t attending on Monday. Tight end, Rob Gronkowski, is also absent from OTA’s. However, he will join at a later date according to Pro Football Talk.
Per source, Rob Gronkowski may not be at OTAs today, but he will be there at some point.
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) May 21, 2018
Gronkowski missed workouts earlier in the offseason because he was unsure of his playing status, contemplating retirement. He announced that he will be returning for the 2018 season, but he has yet to attend any workouts.
Gronkowski could be looking to rework his contract as well. However, his situation is tougher than Brady’s given his injury history and age.
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It will be something to keep an eye on as the offseason goes on. The Patriots play hardball even with their best players. Gronkowski could be the next one that they do it with.