On February 5, 2026, in Santa Clara, California, New England Patriots linebacker Robert Spillane expressed strong disapproval of Tom Brady’s recent remarks about the upcoming Super Bowl. Brady, formerly the Patriots’ star quarterback and now part-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, stated on the Let’s Go! SiriusXM podcast that he had “no dog in the fight” ahead of the Patriots’ game against the Seattle Seahawks. Spillane’s reaction highlighted tension within the Patriots locker room surrounding Brady’s neutrality.
Spillane Challenges Brady’s Neutrality Amid Super Bowl Week
Brady’s comment that he does not have a direct interest in the Super Bowl struck a nerve with Patriots players. Spillane criticized Brady’s stance, emphasizing the former quarterback’s lasting connection to the team.
“He has a dog in the fight (being a former Patriot), so for him to say that, it is what it is. But at the end of the day, he’s an owner of the Las Vegas Raiders now, so he’s got to do what’s best for him,”
Spillane said.
Player Availability and Injury Updates Ahead of the Game
Despite recent injury concerns from the AFC Championship, Spillane appears optimistic about his availability for the Super Bowl. After missing Wednesday’s practice due to an ankle issue, he returned on Thursday in a limited role.
“It was all a part of the plan to take yesterday off, prepare to go [Thursday], just really let it rip at practice today,”
Spillane explained.
Coach Mike Vrabel Hopes to Feature Spillane on Game Day
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel expressed hope that Spillane will be ready to contribute on Sunday.
“We’ll try to put together the game day roster we feel like gives us the best chance and hopefully that includes Robert, but again we have a few more practice days before we get there,”
Vrabel stated, signaling cautious optimism regarding the linebacker’s status.
Implications for Patriots and the Super Bowl Outcome
Spillane’s frustration with Brady’s comments reflects the deep competitive spirit within the Patriots organization as they prepare for the championship game. With key players recovering from injury and the added drama of Brady’s shifted loyalties, the anticipation and tension surrounding the Super Bowl have intensified. How Spillane’s mindset and availability will affect the Patriots’ defense remains a critical factor as the team aims to secure their victory.
Robert Spillane said “personally it makes me sick” hearing Tom Brady say he doesn’t have a dog in the fight pic.twitter.com/Zgyt7WN6dE
— Karen Guregian (@kguregian) February 5, 2026
