Patriots' Tom Brady: Hasn't made 2018 status official

Brady hasn't committed to playing in 2018, though he's expected to do so, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Brady and Rob Gronkowski's absence from the start of the offseason program is the latest sign of frustration with head coach Bill Belichick's leadership, though it still would be surprising if either star decides not to play in 2018. Both players have played under contracts worth far less than their true value in recent seasons, and it's possible they're hoping for raises before reporting to the team, though Brady probably has other reasons. Brady hasn't missed part of the offseason program since 2010, and he has never seemed too bothered by making a bit less money than other top quarterbacks. The 40-year-old has openly discussed the idea of playing until age 45, hoping that his work with body coach Alex Guerrero will lead to rare longevity. The strained relationship between Guerrero and Belichick seems to be part of the problem, but it will be shocking if that's actually enough to make Brady consider retirement.