Here Are The Patriots Who Won’t Be Heading To Trump’s White House

After this year’s historic Super Bowl victory over the Falcons, players from the New England Patriots have been announcing that they will be skipping the trip to the White House to meet with President Trump. We have compiled an ongoing list of these players and their reason for staying home.

Not going in protest of Trump:

Tight end Martellus Bennett:

Defensive back Devin McCourty:

McCourty told TIME:

I’m not going to the White House,” he wrote in a text message. “Basic reason for me is I don’t feel accepted in the White House. With the president having so many strong opinions and prejudices I believe certain people might feel accepted there while others won’t.”

Defensive lineman Chris Long:

Running back LeGarrette Blount:

Defensive lineman Alan Branch:

This is what Branch told The Boston Globe on why he’s not going to the White House:

I wouldnt spend time away from my family to shake the hand of a guy I wouldnt want to meet with or talk to, Branch, who also has a son, added. I cant see myself going and then hanging out with my kids and pretending everything was all right.

Branch also told the Boston Globe he was uncomfortable with the leaked Access Hollywood tape, where Trump said he would grab women by the genitals without their consent.

Branch was also offended when Trump said his lewd comments were simply locker-room banter. Ive never heard nor talked like that in my life in a locker room, and my 11th season is coming up, said the professional football player. The way he talked, so aggressively, Ive just never heard that. I am uncomfortable with that.

Simply not going:

Linebacker Dont’a Hightower:

Not going because of family reasons:

Quarterback Tom Brady:

`
Back to top