Belichick Evasive on Gronkowski Questions in Wednesday Presser
It should come as no surprise that Bill Belichick was evasive with any line of questioning about Rob Gronkowski at his Wednesday morning press conference.
Belichick would not talk about a recent radio interview in which Gronkowski’s brother Chris suggested that the star tight end was frustrated with the Patriots amid their rough 1-2 start to the season.
“I’m focused on the Dolphins, getting ready for this week’s game. I’m not talking about last week, last month, last year, or anything else,” Belichick said.
With a lack of reliable offensive weapons, Gronkowski has faced a relentless assault of double teams in the last two weeks and has been held in check as a result. Chris Gronkowski said his brother is “frustrated” by the performance of the team so far.
“He just wants to get the ball in his hands. He just can’t do it when no one else is open. He can’t have single coverage when no one else can beat single coverage,” Chris Gronkowski said.
Belichick was not asked about Gronkowski publically confirming an Adam Schefter report on Sunday that he was nearly traded to the Lions right before the 2018 draft.
Aug 24, 2018; Charlotte, NC: New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski talks with quarterback Tom Brady during the fourth quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. (Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports)
Schefter reported that the Patriots struck a deal with the Lions, but it fell through when Gronkowski signaled his unwillingness to play in Detroit and be split up from Tom Brady.
Belichick did not field any questions on wide receiver Josh Gordon, who was inactive for Sunday’s game after being acquired from Cleveland last week.
Belichick did talk about rookie running back Sony Michel, who has had little impact in his first two NFL games.
“He’s working hard, getting better every day, he’s got a long way to go but he’s working hard and improving,” Belichick said.
The 1-2 Patriots host the 3-0 Dolphins on Sunday.
