Brady’s OTA absence was ‘personal’
Even Tom Brady uses “personal reasons” to get out of work.
The five-time Super Bowl champion told reporters Thursday at the Patriots’ mandatory minicamp he had “personal reasons” for not attending the voluntary organized team activities that began at the end of May.
That was about all he would offer about his absence, which was rare for the three-time MVP quarterback, and especially curious in the light of reports of discord between him and coach Bill Belichick.
The 40-year-old Brady said he had not had any thoughts of retirement and his relationship with Belichick was “great.”
“I’ve been here for a long time, and I love this team,” Brady said. “I love this organization. I love playing quarterback for [Belichick]. I loved it last year. I’m hav- ing a lot of fun now. That’s obviously what’s most important to me.”
In the past, Brady has said the optional workouts have been important to team-building to get the Patriots ready for the season. He echoed that sentiment on Thursday. “It’s obviously important for everybody, and our coaches do a great job of getting us ready,” Brady said. “Just some personal reasons for me [to be absent]. But I’m here now.”
Brady declined to speak about his contract situation. He is signed through the 2019 season and has said he wants to play into his mid-40s. The Patriots appeared to commit to him long term when they traded Jimmy Garoppolo to the 49ers last year, but they have not extended Brady’s deal.
“I’m focused on what I need to do, as I always am,” Brady said. “I’m looking forward to this year.”