Kraft Orders Immediate Dismissal of Five After Disruption at Military Memorial
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft took one of the most decisive disciplinary actions of his ownership tenure this week, ordering the immediate dismissal of five team members after what the organization described as “unacceptable conduct” during a military memorial ceremony.
The tribute honored National Guard member Andrew Wolfe. According to team officials, those dismissed were alleged to have engaged in behavior that violated the solemn nature of the event.
“We celebrate excellence on the field,” Kraft said, “but character off the field is non-negotiable.”
A Legacy of Discipline Tested
The Patriots, long synonymous with rigid standards under Bill Belichick, have rarely seen discipline so publicly and swiftly enforced under new leadership structures.
League executives say the decision drew immediate attention from ownership groups across the NFL, calling it “an unmistakable signal.”
Fans React With Mixed Emotion
While some fans expressed sorrow that such an incident occurred at all, others praised Kraft’s decisiveness.
“I don’t care who you are on the depth chart,” said one longtime season-ticket holder. “You don’t disrespect the uniform.”
Bigger Than a Team
Military organizations across New England released statements commending the franchise for responding “with clarity and purpose.”
For the Patriots, the message is now a permanent one: performance never outweighs principles.
