The Patriots are just starting training camp this week in preparation for the 2021 NFL season, but coach Bill Belichick’s media skills are as ready as they’ve ever been.
The famously cagey coach shut down or otherwise evaded some of the biggest questions facing his team heading into camp during his Tuesday morning media availability.
Belichick first warned reporters that he “wouldn’t get into” specifics about the team’s vaccination status, including the departure of offensive line assistant Cole Popovich over his apparent refusal to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in accordance with NFL regulations. The longtime Patriots coach confirmed that Carmen Bricillo, who shared offensive line coaching duties with Popovich following Dante Scarnecchia’s retirement, would take over as the top O-line assistant.