BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — The Patriots are officially on to Minnesota and Super Bowl LII.
The team hosted a send-off rally Monday morning in the NRG Plaza outside The Hall at Patriot Place where thousands of fans showed up to support the team before they left for the airport.
Among those who spoke to the crowd were Jonathan Kraft, Bill Belichick, Danny Amendola, Devin McCourty, Duron Harmon and Tom Brady. It was also worth noting Rob Gronkowski took the stage, even though he remains in the concussion protocol.
"This is awesome. It's Monday. There's supposed to be work and school," Kraft said to the crowd.
Belichick was next and he thanked the fans for showing up before turning things over to Danny Amendola, who echoed his coach.
Devin McCourty commended the fans for how loud they were during the AFC championship game.
"Last Sunday was awesome," he said. "We appreciate that just seeing the energy in the stadium. … We're excited. We cannot wait to get to Minnesota. … Forget work today, just keep cheering."
Duron Harmon called the fans the best in sports before starting a "MVP" chant for Brady.
The quarterback closed things out with a few comments of his own.
"Thank you guys for your support all year," Brady said. "It's been an incredible journey. We have one more to go. It's going to be fun. … Patriot Nation is stronger than ever. We have one more to go."
Brady added: "We love you. Patriots out."
The Patriots will arrive in Minnesota later this afternoon before Opening Night Monday night.
The -- of all mic drops. #NotDone pic.twitter.com/6BG7lr0oYW
— Gillette Stadium (@GilletteStadium) January 29, 2018
