Robert Kraft has a history of drawing strong emotional connections with his franchise quarterbacks.
Kraft’s relationship with Tom Brady after 20 seasons has grown incredibly strong, but he had a similar feeling toward Drew Bledsoe in 2001 — when everything changed. Bledsoe was featured in ESPN’s “E:60” documentary, shedding light on some important moments of his life and career.
Bledsoe was at the helm for the New England Patriots for eight seasons before infamously getting injured and replaced by Brady. Kraft bought the Patriots in 1994 and Bill Belichick started coaching in 2000. He wasn’t the legendary coach he is now, but Kraft trusted his instinct on keeping Brady in as the starter.
Belichick made the right decision, but Kraft had difficulty with it initially.
“I was heartbroken because I felt a connection, and I didn’t think it was fair on a human basis,” Kraft said. “Drew came to me and expressed his frustration. I went and met with Bill, and Bill explained to me his thinking. I mean, I could have stepped in especially at that time. I had deep discussions with Bill. I was bothered, but I trusted Bill to make the final decision as he’s more capable than I am. Although, emotionally it was very difficult.”
Six Super Bowl victories and 20 seasons later, the Patriots are still beneficiaries of a very difficult decision. Fast-forwarding to the present, these emotions still apply to Brady and his looming free agency decision. Brady, 42, is entering free agency with an open mind and Kraft openly said he wanted Brady to stay with the Patriots or retire.
That will play a heavy factor in Brady’s NFL future, but once again, Belichick will have the final say.
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