New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft “was not very happy” to see Tom Brady leave his team last year, but now that his former star defender has won another Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, his feelings have changed – more or less.
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During Brady’s time in New England, Brady was the leader of the Kraft team that made nine appearances in the Super Bowl, while winning six championships. During a recent interview with Sports Illustrated’s Monday Morning Quarterback, Kraft talked about the Pats’ former quarterback leading a team other than his own for a Super Bowl championship.
“Well, I was really happy for him,” Kraft told the website. “He’s a great guy and gave us 20 wonderful years, and he made the choice to do what he wanted. Look, I wasn’t so happy to see him go, but we gave him the opportunity to do that. And I want to say that if we are not going to win, and someone has to do that, I’m happy for him. He deserves. “
In their first season without Brady at the center, the Patriots ended with a record 7-9 and lost the playoffs for the first time in 11 years.
PATRIOTS, BUCS AMONG THOSE WHO MAKE THE LARGEST WAVES UNTIL NOW
Coach Bill Belichick and company spent $ 175 million on guarantees in the first 48 hours of free agency this off-season. They brought new additions to the tight ends Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith, defensive side Matthew Judon and wide receivers Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne.
The Patriots also brought back quarterback Cam Newton on a one-year contract.
Belichick recently released a statement about the team’s new signings.
“We are excited about the additions to our list so far this year,” he said. “Whether by exchange, free agency or rehiring, the group brings a good mix of attack, defense and special teams. It was great to see them in the building, including some familiar faces, and we are all looking forward to continuing building for the next season. “
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Tampa Bay, on the other hand, is prepared for another Super Bowl race in 2021.
Brady signed an extension, which freed $ 19 million in salary cap space that allowed Buccaneers to re-hire linebacker Lavonte David, tight end Rob Gronkowski and linebacker Shaq Barrett (four years, $ 72 million). Bucs also placed the franchise brand on wide receiver Chris Godwin.