The New England Patriots assumed the only media distraction the team would have would be surrounding the recent signing of quarterback Tim Tebow. Cameras were constantly present at practice trying to get a good luck at the media darling. Head coach Bill Belichick was able to eliminate that distraction, until another one came about. The current investigation of Aaron Hernandez has teammates dealing with another set of distractions and noise from the media, something players are just trying to block out.
Linebacker Jerod Mayo briefly spoke on the investigation while making a promotional appearance. He told the media that players are just trying to block out the noise and ignore everything the media is saying.
"We always talk about ignoring the noise, and we're doing the same now. Whether it's good or bad, we always talk about ignoring the noise. I'm going to leave this one alone until everything's done or whatever," Mayo said.
There is certainly a lot of noise to block out for Patroits' players. The offseason has not exactly been a quiet one. The team first dealt with the departure of long-time wide receiver Wes Welker. Then they had the media circus attached with the signing of Tebow. Now, Hernandez is adding yet another slew of national attention onto the team.
The Hernandez murder investigation continues to grab more headlines with each day. Nearly a dozen law enforcement officers were present at his home over the weekend, searching his house and surrounding ponds for any evidence. Reports have surfaced that a paper warrant has been issued for his arrest, but nothing else has come of it. The tight end is currently the top figure in the murder of 27-year-old Odin Lloyd, an associate of Hernandez's who was killed by gunshot.
Hernandez's lawyer has made a statement on the player's behalf. Ed Garland simply said, "Over the past week, our client, Aaron Hernandez has been the subject of a relentless flood of rumors, misinformation and false reports in the media. These include the repeated publication of a supposedly confirmed report that an arrest warrant had been issued for Aaron, a report that was exposed as untrue. None of these false reports come from official sources and we appreciate the professionalism and restraint shown by the Bristol County District Attorney's office to date with regard to its public statements while its investigation is underway."
The Patriots report for training camp on July 25. Belichick has always been a master of making sure football is the focus of the team and he will take the same attitude as the media continue to focus on the investgation.
