TB’s head case He’s ready
QB didn’t report any signs of concussion
FOXBORO — The NFL and NFLPA have jointly determined Tom Brady didn’t report any signs or symptoms that were consistent with having a concussion last season.
The league and Players Association reviewed Brady’s medical records, which were released by his permission, as well as the records of the Patriots medical staff and independent concussion spotters.
Their evaluation, which is now complete, was spurred by comments from Brady’s wife back in May. Gisele Bundchen told CBS that Brady “had a concussion last year.” Brady has never been listed on the injury report with a concussion.
An NFL spokesman issued the following statement yesterday morning:
“The NFL and NFLPA have conducted comprehensive evaluations of the Concussion Protocol as it applied to Tom Brady during the 2016-17 season,” the statement read. “This review included an examination of all game film from every Patriots’ game last season, every report from the Unaffiliated Neurotrauma Consultants and Booth ATC Spotters assigned to those games and Mr. Brady’s medical records, which were produced pursuant to a release signed by Mr. Brady.
“This review identified no evidence of any deviation from the Protocol by the Patriots’ medical staff or the Unaffiliated Neurotrauma Consultants assigned to Patriots’ games, or any indication that Mr. Brady sustained a concussion or reported signs or symptoms consistent with having sustained a concussion. We appreciate the cooperation of the Patriots’ medical staff in conducting this review.
“As a reminder, under the NFL Concussion Protocol, the NFL and NFLPA encourage all players to report any signs or symptoms of concussion promptly and openly to their team medical staffs.”
Run amuck
As long as Brady is standing, the Patriots will be viewed as a passing team. But running backs Mike Gillislee and Rex Burkhead were brought onboard over the offseason to strengthen their ground forces.
And maybe, if it all comes together with the two additions and incumbents Dion Lewis and James White, the Patriots will even take a little something off Brady’s plate in 2017.
“We’re going to see what kind of team we are,” Gillislee said. “We’ve worked hard. We’re good in the passing game. We’re good in the running game this offseason, too. Let’s just see on Thursday.”
Burkhead, who signed a one-year deal worth up to $3.1 million, could lead the backfield in snaps this season because of his ability to produce in both phases. Gillislee is their best power back and should seize control of a LeGarrette Blount type of role after landing a two-year, $6.4 million contract as a restricted free agent.
And both are ready for their initial test.
“That’s something that me and Rex look forward to,” Gillislee said. “It’s our first time for both of us suiting up and playing on the Patriots field. We look forward to that. We put in so much hard work on the field and off the field, and we finally get a chance to go out there and perform.”
Cornerback Stephon Gilmore had an outstanding preseason, as he only allowed one catch for 2 yards and broke up two passes on the three thrown in his direction.
That’s a heck of a start for a guy who signed a fiveyear, $65 million contract last offseason, a deal worth more in total dollars than Bill Belichick has ever doled out to a defensive player.
So there’s no question Gilmore is ready to get it going for real.
“It’s going to be fun. I love this game,” Gilmore said. “Every time I get the opportunity to play, I want to play fast, have fun and do whatever I can to help the team win.”
Get in early
Though tonight’s game begins at 8:30 p.m., the Patriots have advised fans to be in their seats by 8 p.m. for a concert and celebration to unveil their Super Bowl LI banner. The Patriots also want fans to factor in traffic and security lines to ensure fans don’t miss the ceremony.