On Tuesday, Bill Belichick chose to speak about only the players that were present at OTAs. On Wednesday, Robert Kraft had no such reservations.
Speaking at the annual spring owner's meetings in Atlanta, Kraft was asked about Tom Brady's absence from the team thus far this offseason and he indicated that the quarterback would be back with the team at next month's mini-camp.
"I can only say this, I know he's very excited about being at mini-camp and having a very special season this year," Kraft said.
As for Brady's decision to remain away from the team to this point, Kraft offered some thoughts in support of his quarterback as well.
"I've been in communication with Tom," Kraft said. "I think he's very excited about the upcoming season. These are voluntary workouts. I think he's in great shape. I think he's at an age where he's blessed to have three children now and built a number of businesses and has certain responsibilities. I think it's very hard for him to fulfill those during the season with the commitment that he has to football."
Kraft was also asked about Rob Gronkowski, who has also chosen to work out on his own rather than join his teammates in Foxborough. The tight end reportedly wishes to continue working with Brady's training guru Alex Guerrero rather than his traditional football preparation.
The owner was asked about the possibility of Gronkowski receiving more money in order to entice a return but wouldn't get into any specifics beyond mini-camp,
"I'm pretty sure he'll be there as well. We all love Gronk. In the next life we all want to come back as Gronk," he said.
There has been plenty of speculation about a possible rift between Brady and Belichick, but if that's true it's news to Kraft.
"My point of view, nothing's changed here," he said. "Everything is good and I think he's very excited about coming back and I know we're excited to have him. We're looking forward to a great football season."
So, while missing two of the team's biggest stars for offseason workouts is less than ideal, all signs point toward a return next month.
