 Robert Kraft made some strong statements Monday night, and said he expects an apology from the league if the investigation ultimately finds they didn't do anything wrong. (USA TODAY Images) |
STATEMENT FROM PATRIOTS OWNER ROBERT KRAFT ON MONDAY NIGHT:
"On the plane ride out here, I prepared a few remarks, which I'd like to read to you. On behalf of the entire organization, I want to express what an honor it is to be here and represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. I know how difficult it is to get to this game, and I appreciate the work of everyone who helps host the event. We are anticipating a great game against the defending Super Bowl Champ Seattle Seahawks."
"Given the events of the last week, I want to take a minute to address the air pressure matter, before we kick off this week's media availabilities. I've spoken with coach Belichick. I've spoken with Tom Brady. I have taken the opportunity to understand to the best of my abilities what goes on in the preparation of game day footballs and I want to make it clear, that I believe unconditionally that the New England Patriots have done nothing inappropriate in this process or in violation of NFL rules. Tom, Bill and I have been together for 15 years. They are my guys. They are part of my family and Bill, Tom and I have had many difficult discussions over the years and I have never known them to lie to me. That is why I am confident in saying what I just said and it bothers me greatly that their reputations and integrity, and by association that of our team, has been called into question this past week."
"As I said on Friday in my prepared statement, we welcome the league's investigation and the involvement of attorney Wells. I am confident that this investigation will uncover whatever the facts were that took place last Sunday and the science of how game balls react to changes in the environment. This would be in direct contrast to the public discourse, which has been driven by media leaks as opposed to actual data and facts. Because of this, many jump to conclusions and made strong accusations against our coach, quarterback and staff, questioning the integrity of all involved."
"If the Wells investigation is not able to definitively determine that our organization tampered with the air pressure in the footballs, I would expect and hope that the league would apologize to our entire team and in particular coach Belichick and Tom Brady for what they have had to endure this past week. I am disappointed in the way this entire matter has been handled and reported upon. We expect hard facts, as opposed to circumstantial leaked evidence to drive the conclusion of this investigation."
"In closing, I would like to say to all the fans of the National Football league and especially the amazing fans of the New England Patriots that I and our entire organization believe strongly in the integrity of the game and the rules of fair play, properly, equitably and fairly enforced."
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