Despite their strong relationship and after 20 successful years together, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft will reportedly not force head coach Bill Belichick to keep Tom Brady if he wants to move on from him.
There has been speculation that Kraft will overrule Belichick and keep Tom Brady in large part due to the belief that Kraft forced Belichick to trade quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in 2017.
Tom E. Curran of NBC Sports Boston explains:
“The owner has declared many times he wants Brady to remain a Patriot. But my understanding is that, just as he wouldn’t force Brady to stay under a franchise tag, he won’t intercede if Belichick concludes moving on from Brady is the best course of action.
While Brady is more than open to remaining a Patriot if things seem destined to improve, the lure of being a free agent is there as well. There are about 10 teams – including the Patriots – that could be attractive landing spots or possible suitors.”
Curran mentions that the Patriots could franchise tag Brady but that won’t happen after a provision was put in Brady’s previous contract that prevents the Patriots from using the franchise or transition tag on him next offseason.
Curran also states that it is his understanding that the Patriots will “extend themselves” financially in an effort to re-sign the face of the franchise.
