Belichick Addresses Chandler Jones Situation: 'Nothing More Important' Than Health And Well-Being
By Matt Dolloff, CBS Boston
BOSTON (CBS) -- Bill Belichick attacked his most anticipated press conference in some time head-on. Without prompting, the Patriots head coach directly addressed the situation involving defensive end Chandler Jones, who was hospitalized over the weekend after a reported bad reaction to synthetic marijuana use.
"There's nothing more important to me than the health and well-being of our players and staff," Belichick said as he addressed Jones' situation. When pressed further on the matter, Belichick began deflecting. "I've already covered it," he told one reporter.
Belichick grew saltier as the press conference wore on. When asked about how he may implement Jones into the gameplan, he offered this gem: "We'll find out on Saturday ... I can just Xerox you a copy of the gameplan [so you can] send it to Kansas City. Might be easier for all of us."
This was to Mike Reiss, who they respect more than most Patriots reporters. So Belichick simply wasn't having it today. He dated himself, too, with the Xerox reference.
Belichick eventually snapped with "Are there any more questions about the Chiefs, here?" Poor Belichick. Always tries to get the salacious stuff over with and talk about the game. He knew he'd be peppered with Chandler Jones questions anyway, but he still couldn't take it anymore.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe asked Belichick what most of the reporters were probably afraid to ask at that point: "How is your eye feeling? And how did you hurt it?" Belichick's response: "Great."
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This press conference feels like an instant classic in terms of salty Belichick. Complete with sneers, stares, snide remarks, stonewalling, the works. The video clip from the presser above is a must-see.
Matt Dolloff is a writer for CBSBostonSports.com. His opinions do not necessarily reflect that of CBS or 98.5 The Sports Hub. Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff and email him at mdolloff@985thesportshub.com.
