Brady focusing on Bengals, not getting new deal

The wide receiver has his own contract issues. His deal also is in its final season and he said Monday in an interview with CBSSports.com, “it kind of feels like I am not wanted.”

Moss, a fixture at preseason practices, did not participate Wednesday due to illness, according to the Patriots practice report.

“I want him. He knows that. I tell him every day,” Brady said. “He’s everything we look for in a receiver. He’s been a great player for his whole career. Look at what he’s done here in terms of his productivity. Look at what he’s done this preseason in training camp. He’s been a great example, a great leader.”

In three seasons with New England, Moss has averaged 83 catches for 1,255 yards and 16 touchdowns.

Brady also wants two-time Pro Bowl left guard Logan Mankins, a restricted free agent who hasn’t reported because of a contract dispute.

“We’d all love Logan here. Everybody in this building would, but he’s not,” Brady said. “We have to move on and play a game this weekend. Who knows what’s going to happen?”

Whatever happens with his contract, he said it won’t affect his relationship with Kraft.

“Our relationship isn’t based on how much money he pays me. ‘I’m great when he pays me what I want, and I hate him when’ ” Brady said. “It’s very unconditional, the relationship I have with coach (Bill) Belichick and the whole organization. I’m blessed to play here and I love playing here.

“There’s no better job in the world that I’d rather have,” he said. “That’s why I want to do it for a long time.”

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