“I don’t want to bring any drama” – When Tom Brady shut down questions around personal trainer’s arrangement with Patriots

The New England Patriots, had a rocky start to their 2018-19 season because of the suspension of Tom Brady’s former teammate, WR Julian Edelman. Caught in the mix was Brady's business partner and trainer, Alex Guerrero.

Brady has maintained close relations with his trainer ever since they met in 2008. The media therefore asked Brady about the involvement of Guerrero in Edelman’s suspension, but he swiftly deflected the question, as reported by ABC news in June 2018:

"Alex and I, we work together," he stated, "I don't want to bring any drama this year, you know? I just want to focus on what I want to and be a great football player for this team and try to be a good example in the locker room and provide great leadership. That's where my focus is."

Brady emphasized that his focus is on winning and avoiding distractions during the season. He aimed to stay in top physical and mental condition in order to excel as the team's quarterback.

Julian Edelman overcomes suspension to lift Super Bowl LIII with Tom Brady

In June 2018, the NFL announced that WR Julian Edelman tested positive for a banned substance under the league's performance-enhancing drugs policy. As a result, Edelman was suspended for the first four games of the upcoming season. Despite his appeal, the suspension was upheld.

Given Alex Guerrero's long tenure as the team’s trainer and his close relationship with Edelman, it was assumed he would have known about the drug usage. However, Guerrero denied any involvement and praised Edelman’s work ethic. In a tweet relayed through Tom E. Curran, Guerrero expressed his disappointment, stating:

"Here at our facility, we take a natural, holistic, appropriate, and, above all, legal approach to training and recovery for all of our clients. And anyone who would suggest otherwise is irresponsible and just plain wrong."

Guerrero faced repercussions from owner Robert Kraft and head coach Bill Belichick due to the allegations, despite reported support from star QB Tom Brady. He was notably absent from the sidelines during preseason games and was only permitted to attend to Brady. However, he was allowed to travel with the team on the bus.

Conversely, Julian Edelman made a remarkable comeback after his suspension. Although his reputation as a hardworking athlete was initially tarnished, he regained much of it by winning the Super Bowl LIII MVP award and helping the Patriots and Brady secure their sixth Lombardi Trophy.