Several Patriots players have decided not to visit President Trump at the White House

President Trump is a big supporter of the New England Patriots.

But the feeling doesn’t appear to be mutual for several members of the Super Bowl LI champion team.

Days before the Patriots beat Atlanta for their fifth NFL championship, tight end Martellus Bennett was asked if he’d participate in such a visit. “Most likely no,� he said. “I don’t support the guy that’s in the house.�

After the game, Bennett indicated he’d made up his mind about the matter. “I’m not going to go,� he said. “It is what it is. People know how I feel about it. Just follow me on Twitter.�

Defensive back Devin McCourty told Time in a text message on Monday: “I’m not going to the White House. Basic reason for me is I don’t feel accepted in the White House. With the president having so many strong opinions and prejudices I believe certain people might feel accepted there while others won’t.�

Running back James White told Sirius XM on Tuesday that he still hadn’t made up his mind on the matter. “I’ll wait ’til the time comes and decide then,� White said.

Linebacker Dont’a Hightower said Wednesday that he would not go, but apparently his decision had little to do with Trump.

In response to an open letter from Chuck Modiano of the New York Daily News, defensive end Chris Long tweeted Thursday that he’s opting out of the trip.

Also on Thursday running back LeGarrette Blount told the “Rich Eisen Show�: “I will not be going to the White House. I don’t feel welcome in that house. I’ll leave it at that.�

[email protected]

Twitter: @chewkiii

ALSO

Bill Belichick tries to let loose at the Patriots’ victory parade by starting an unusual chant

Bill Belichick says winning the Super Bowl put the Patriots five weeks behind for 2017

Op-Ed: Why I’m rooting against the Patriots this Sunday: Their loathsome politics