FOXBORO, Mass. -- New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady fielded a few questions at his locker Friday regarding wide receiver Antonio Brown, but he made it clear his focus is squarely on preparing for Sunday's matchup with the New York Jets.
"I'm just preparing like I always do," Brady said. "Trying to play well this weekend against the Jets. Doing what I can do, focusing on what I can focus on, control what I can control. I'm not here to do anything other than that -- to get ready to play a game."
The NFL's investigation into the allegations made against Brown in a civil lawsuit filed in Florida last week is ongoing. Late Thursday night, a new Sports Illustrated report was published that alleges Brown has sent intimidating texts to a woman who's accused him of sexual misconduct.
Brown, at this time, is still eligible to play Sunday against the Jets. It would be Brown's first home game since his contract with the Patriots officially was announced Sept. 9.
Whether Brown plays Sunday or not, the Patriots will remain heavy betting favorites over the Jets. The spread is 22.5 points (even higher at some sportsbooks) in favor of the defending Super Bowl champions, who have won six consecutive games against their AFC East rivals.
Brady is not taking the Jets lightly, though. The last five Patriots-Jets games were decided by more than a touchdown, but the previous seven before that all were decided by a touchdown or less. This is one of the most intense rivalries in the league, and sometimes that increased energy makes these games more competitive than expected.
New England Patriots
"There's never an easy game in the NFL," Brady said. "They're all challenging. They're really good opponents, well-coached, a lot of good players. I've been playing too long to look past an opponent. These guys are a good team. They always play us tough, and we're expecting their best game."
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