Well, we knew Tom Brady wouldn't be playing Thursday night's preseason opener, but we didn't know this was going to happen.​

Tom Brady was excused from the team tonight to attend the memorial services of a family member. — New England Patriots (@Patriots) August 11, 2016

​​The New England Patriots announced that Tom Brady will be absent from tonight's game due to the death of a family member. We do not know who related to Tom passed away, but all of New England's thoughts and prayers are with you Tommy.





The New England Patriots face off against the New Orleans Saints tonight at Gillette in the first preseason game of the 2016 season.





Jimmy Garoppolo is expected to play at least one full half to get himself acclimated to in-game situations. Garoppolo had a rough week of practice this past week, so it will be nice for him to get some reps in a live game.





The biggest thing that I will be watching for is how he reacts in the pocket and how he handles pressure. He will most likely be working with the second-team offensive line, so there is a chance that he will be under pressure tonight.





Hopefully he can get the W tonight for Brady.





On a lighter note: ​Enjoy This Patriot Fans Epic Rant That Has Gone Viral



