New England Patriots' Devin McCourty doesn't 'feel accepted' in Donald Trump's White House

Feb. 8 (UPI) -- Another New England Patriots player has decided to opt out of his team's Super Bowl White House visit.

Patriots defensive back Devin McCourty joined tight end Martellus Bennett in the growing group of players who won't visit the nation's capital to be honored for its Super Bowl 51 title. He confirmed the move Monday in text messages to TIME.

"I'm not going to the White House," McCourty wrote to TIME. "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."

"I can't imagine a way I go there," McCourty told TIME.

Bennett told reporters after the Super Bowl that he was "not going to go" to the White House. He said he would elaborate later.

"People know how I feel about it, just follow me on Twitter," Bennett said.

"You just don't bring that to work. We all have our beliefs. We accept people for who they are."

Patriots owner Robert Kraft and coach Bill Belichick have noted ties to President Donald Trump, while quarterback Tom Brady considers him a "friend."

McCourty, 29, is a two-time Super Bowl champion and two-time Pro Bowl selection. He had 64 tackles and seven passes defended in 2016. He also signed a five-year, $47.5 million contract in 2015.