"Tom was excused today. He will be back at some point after the preseason game against Tennessee" scheduled for August 20, Bowles added after the day's practice, adding that Brady's absence was discussed in advance.
When asked by the media if a health issue was the reason, the coach replied: "It's a personal issue. That's all I can tell you."
Rather than miss the groundwork of the first two weeks, Brady preferred to retire, while the rest of the team prepares for this friendly game and the one against the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, in order to allow the backup quarterbacks to fight. .
"He wanted to fit in, lay the foundations for chemistry with the guys and go through those first two weeks of training camp. Knowing he wasn't going to play the first two warm-up matches, he didn't want to deprive Blaine Gabbert and Kyle Trask, as well as Ryan Griff, of rehearsals for these meetings," Bowles said.
The seven-time Super Bowl winner, who has just turned 45, retired from sport at the start of the year, before reconsidering his decision a few weeks later.
The announcement of the absence of the quarterback, known for his professionalism through and through, is surprising, but the Buccaneers are not in doubt that he will be operational at the start of the season.
"There is no doubt" for Brady to be present with the Dallas Cowboys on September 11, "I have a fairly high level of confidence," assured the Tampa Bay coach.
"It's something he has to deal with. We trust him."
© 2022 AFP