The Patriots’ denial has begun.
The three targets of the bombshell ESPN report published early Friday challenged the findings as “unsubstantiated” and rooted in “fallacies.” The investigate piece detailed a deep-seated rift among owner Robert Kraft, coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady — the three centerpieces of the Patriots dynasty over their 18-year run together.
“For the past 18 years, the three of us have enjoyed a very good and productive working relationship,” the trio said in a joint statement. “In recent days, there have been multiple media reports that have speculated theories that are unsubstantiated, highly exaggerated or flat out inaccurate. The three of us share a common goal. We look forward to the enormous challenge of competing in the postseason and the opportunity to work together in the future, just as we have for the past 18 years.
“It is unfortunate that there is even a need for us to respond to these fallacies. As our actions have shown, we stand united.”
The growing discontent among the three, which ESPN examined based on interviews with more than a dozen Patriots staff members and players as well as NFL sources with inside knowledge, seems to have escalated in 2014 when Brady’s trainer, Alex Guerrero, became more involved with the team.
Belichick’s frustration with the guru, whom Brady credits with keeping him at the top of his game at age 40, has been reported on several occasions over the past month. The coach reportedly banned Guerrero from the sidelines and pulled every player except Brady from under his guidance.
Other reasons for the divide included Brady’s apparent unwillingness to mentor Jimmy Garoppolo. Belichick drafted the young quarterback, who was traded to the 49ers this season, as Brady’s successor, which the veteran did not appreciate.
Finally, according to the report, Brady has grown tired of Belichick’s critical treatment in recent years, such as pointing out his mistakes in team settings.
With the three this season vying for their sixth Super Bowl in the last 16 years, they’re hoping to push the drama aside and paint a picture of togetherness before their Divisional Round matchup next weekend.