The New England Patriots took the field today, as they kicked off "phase 3" of their organized team activities regimen this offseason, with two of their star players noticeably absent.

Both quarterback Tom Brady and tight end Rob Gronkowski skipped the opening day of the voluntary practice program.

According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, Brady will not attend any of the team's "phase 3" workouts.

It still remains a bit unclear as to whether or not Gronkowski will be present for any of the practices, as he continues to work out some contract issues with the team.

Phase 3 of the OTA workouts is basically a chance for the players to get out on the practice fields, in helmets, and run drills against each other.

Despite the two players' absence so far, both are expected to be present for the team's mandatory minicamp, which begins on June 5.

 

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