Linebacker Brandon Spikes continues to be the only player for the New England Patriots that is not present at organized team activities. As the team comes back onto the field for another week of OTAs, Spikes has no plans to be there again. While there are no repercussions for skipping out on voluntary team workouts, Spikes is hoping it sends a message to the Patriots' front office. The linebacker is not too happy about his contract and ready to let team officials know.
Spikes is reaching the final year of his rookie contract after the Patriots drafted him in the second round back in 2010. He is expected to make $630,000 in the upcoming season. The fourth-year player is seeking an extension, one that will pay him a much larger sum of money.
Spikes has been a crucial figure in the Patriots defense over the past few seasons. Last year in 15 games, he racked up 92 tackles, one sack and seven passes defended. He has been consistent on the field, starting 28 games over the past three seasons in a rather crowded roster of linebackers. He has improved in each season he has played in with New England.
The Patriots are not too happy with Spikes not being present at OTAs. While the linebacker is hoping this sends a message to the team about his contract, it could be putting him in bad standing with head coach Bill Belichick. A majority of players enjoy working out on their own, but always fly in for OTAs. Belichick views these practices as being crucial for team building and preparation for the upcoming season.
While intends on being a no-show for the Patriots, he does intend on being present when mandatory minicamps begin in June. While he will not be fined for the OTAs absent, mandatory practices are a different story. Per the CBA, if Spikes holds out during camp, he can be fined up to $60,000. The fines increase with each practice skipped. He will be charged $10,000 the first day, $20,000 for the second and $30,000 for the third.
Spikes has always marched to the beat of his own drummer when it comes to offseason workouts, but the absent is not putting him in good light with the Patriots. IF he wants a pay raise, he will have to prove that he wants to be there.
