Sports

Brady, Gronk miss first day of on-field OTAs

 (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

FOXBORO — Patriots quarterback Tom Brady did not take part in the opening of the New England Patriots' Organized Team Activities on Monday. 

This continues Brady's pattern of absence this offseason, as he has missed the first five weeks of the nine-week program.

Brady has been a regular participant in OTAs throughout his career and has been vocal about their importance. This is the first time in his career he has missed the first day of on-field workouts.

Another notable absence from day one of Phase Three is tight end Rob Gronkowski who, like Brady, has not attended voluntary offseason workouts this year.

During OTAs, helmets, knee pads and elbow pads are introduced to simulate a true practice setting and workouts are often referred to as "passing camp."

Since this is a voluntary workout and Brady has no known injuries, the QB is sending a message. Especially since he has spoken about the benefits of building trust, relationships and goals during OTAs.

However, Jeff Howe of The Athletic reports that both Brady and Gronkowski are expected to report to Gillette Stadium in time for the start of mandatory minicamp, which starts June 5.  This is when the offense and defense can run drills against each other.

All of this comes after Brady "pled the fifth" in an interview with Jim Gray a few weeks ago when asked if he felt appreciated by head coach Bill Belichick and the Patriots organization. Brady has also mentioned that he is prioritizing family this offseason.