Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady missed the team’s joint practice with the Dolphins on Thursday and is taking something of a leave of absence during training camp.
It’s unclear what exactly is keeping Brady away from the field, but coach Todd Bowles and the Tampa Bay brass knew it was coming.
When asked if it’s an issue with Brady’s health, Bowles said it was a “personal matter” and that the 45-year-old should be back after Tampa Bay’s Aug. 20 preseason matchup vs. the Titans.
While veterans typically get some reprieve and breaks during training camp, it’s interesting to note that Bowles didn’t guarantee that Brady would be available for Tampa Bay’s Week 1 matchup vs. the Cowboys,.
Bowles said that the absence was scheduled “way before training camp” and that there is a “high level of confidence” that Brady will be back in time for Week 1.
Also noteworthy is that Buccaneers players are aware of the reason for Brady’s absence. Linebacker Devin Smith weighed in on Brady’s absence, saying the team is “praying for him.”
