The New England Patriots start training camp this week after dealing with a crazy summer of Tim Tebow and Aaron Hernandez and this marks the first time many players and coaches could be quoted on the situation involving the arrested tight end and one that did was quarterback Tom Brady.
According to The MMQB, Brady spoke with Peter King about a number of topics, including how he will adjust to life without Hernandez as well as the absence of Wes Welker. Brady's big quote was that he "moved on" from the issue and that he will be ready to try and win games with whoever is on the team. Brady said he isn't close to retiring and that he wouldn't mind playing till he is over 40 if he is still going at a high level.
CLICK here for the Brady Interview on Monday Morning Quarterback with Peter King about Aaron Hernandez.
Brady said that he is committed to winning with the Patriots and that he could continue playing until he is well over 40, much like Brett Favre. King asked about his friendship with Peyton Manning and how that has grown and whether they will be friends when they are older as well. Brady said that he feels that it could happen and that one reason they are close is because Brady has no brothers.
The Patriots will start up camp this week without Hernandez and Brady will get to work with players like Danny Amendola in training camp for the first time. The team feels it has the talent to win without Hernandez and despite his versatility in the offense, they feel that they can still be strong at that position. The Patriots won the AFC East again last season and now they will have to compete with an improved Miami Dolphins team as well as rookies like Geno Smith and EJ Manuel on the Jets and Bills.
Hernandez is in jail for the murder of Odin Lloyd and he could face life in prison if convicted of first degree murder in the shooting. Hernandez finished his Patriots career with 175 catches for almost 2,000 yards and 18 touchdowns in three seasons after coming out of Florida. He was a teammate of current Patriots QB Tim Tebow while playing for the Gators.