ATLANTA — For the Patriots, it’s been a long journey to Super Bowl LIII. Before things get started against the Rams, here’s one last look back at how it all came together for them over the last 12 months.
OFFSEASON
Feb. 5: Shortly after the end of Super Bowl LII, Rob Gronkowski is surprisingly noncommittal when asked about playing in 2018.
March 13: Danny Amendola signs with the Dolphins. He later discusses how tough it can be playing in New England. "It's not easy, that's for sure,” Amendola said of playing for Bill Belichick. “He's an (expletive) sometimes. There were a lot of things I didn't like about playing for him, but I must say, the things I didn't like were all in regards to getting the team better, and I respected him.” The same day, Malcolm Butler signs with the Titans.
March 14: Gronkowski says farewell to Amendola via Instagram, with a note that says: “Be FREE. Be HAPPY.”
March 14: Left tackle Nate Solder signs a free-agent deal with the Giants. In an essay for The Players Tribune, he pays tribute to the Patriots, but also hits on many of the same things Amendola talked about with ESPN — namely, that playing in New England isn’t for everyone.
March 15: Jason McCourty is acquired in a trade with the Browns.
March 19: Cordarrelle Patterson is acquired in a trade with the Raiders.
April 4: Brandin Cooks is dealt to the Rams.
April 16: Brady and Gronkowski are not spotted at the start of the Patriots’ offseason workouts. Later that month, Brady is seen working out on his own at UCLA.
April 21: Gronkowski shows up at Gillette Stadium … for a motocross event in full biker gear. He’s coy for most of the Q&A with reporters. He does hint at a 2018 return, however, when he’s asked if he has anything to say to his fans: “They’re going to see a freak-a-leek when I come back. That’s what.”
April 24: Gronkowski ends speculation about whether or not he will play with an Instagram post: “I met with coach today and informed him I will be back for the 2018 season with the Pats. I have been working out, staying in shape and feel great. Looking forward to another championship run.”
Adam Thielen and Bill Belichick jawing at eachother. Seems like Bill tells Thielen to “Shut the f*** up.” pic.twitter.com/FxWnYWmpKa
— NFL Update (@MySportsUpdate) December 3, 2018
“HELL YEAH NICK” someone yells out in the Pats locker room as the Eagles upend the Texans. @BostonSportsBSJ
— Christopher Price (@cpriceNFL) December 23, 2018
