Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski were both present for the start of mandatory minicamp, marking the first time the star duo has practiced with the Patriots this offseason.
This has been a rather interesting offseason for the Patriots as it relates to their star players. In addition to the expected departure of free agent cornerback Malcolm Butler after he was benched in the Super Bowl, Gronkowski spent much of the offseason having not confirmed whether he intended to return to the Patriots or retire. Brady, meanwhile, was a notable absence from organized team activities after stressing their importance in years past.
Prior to Tuesday's session, Bill Belichick was asked about Brady's status, to which he replied, "I've always had a good relationship with Tom."
Asked if he was concerned with Brady missing OTAs, Belichick noted that they were voluntary and that Brady had missed them before.