NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s relationship with the New England Patriots has been rocky since Deflategate began, and that includes his former supporter Robert Kraft.
In an interview with the New York Daily News, Kraft addressed the state of his relationship with Goodell.
"I don't know if it will ever be the same, but in order to do what is best for the Patriots franchise long term, I believe it is best to compartmentalize and move on," he said. "Like our quarterback, I am trying to remain positive and look to the future rather than dwell on the past. As a native New Englander, that's easier said than done, but I am doing my best to put the matter behind me."
One of the big storylines heading into the Super Bowl was Goodell seemingly avoiding Gillette Stadium and the Patriots. If they beat the Falcons next Sunday in the big game, many are interested to see how the Lombardi exchange goes between Brady and Goodell.
"I'm not going to speak to that," Kraft said. "I hope we do win, then we can talk about it."
Tom Brady was asked if there was “extra motivation” for him to win this season thanks to Deflategate, but he didn’t take the bait. Kraft, however, believes that may be the case.
"He's a very positive person, and did it give him a little extra motivation? Sure," he said, "The whole thing, yeah, I think it was extra motivation."