With many things going around in society these days, several NFL players have already opted out of playing in the upcoming season. However, the New England Patriots lead the list having six total players who will be foregoing to play football in September. Patriots head tactician Bill Belichick was jokingly suspected to be the whisperer to the players' ears.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter humorously shared a joke regarding the situation on Twitter:
Actual text exchange with an NFL executive today after a sixth Patriot opted out:
Him: “You know Bill is masterminding all of this somehow.”
Me: “For what reason?”
Him: “I don’t know! That’s why he is who he is!”
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 28, 2020
Headlining the players are linebacker Dont'a Hightower, tackle Marcus Cannon, guard Najee Toran, fullback Danny Vitale, running back Brandon Bolden, and most recently, safety Patrick Chung.
The New England Patriots had a dominant 2019 season, clinching the AFC East division with a 12-4 record only to be followed by the 10-6 Buffalo Bills. The team had a surprisingly early exit in the 2019 NFL playoffs as the Tennessee Titans pulled off the rug to score an upset, 20-13. The heartbreaking loss at Gillette Stadium marked the end of Tom Brady's 19-year tenure in New England.
Despite the franchise's rich history, 2020 will be a scenario unlike any other. The team is now entering a new era with the 2015 NFL MVP Cam Newton at the helm. Wide receiver Julian Edelman, cornerback Stephon Gilmore, and versatile veteran James White are still going to carry the majority of the team's load on both ends of the field.
Despite the worrying absences of his trusted men, one thing is for sure – Bill Belichick will still find a way to win. The team will be tested first by division rival Miami Dolphins on September 13 at their home turf.
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