New England Patriots players confirm plans to skip ceremony at Donald Trump's White House

A growing number of New England Patriots players have signalled their intent to skip the traditional Super Bowl ceremony at the White House with some citing Donald Trump as the reason.

Tight end Martellus Bennett confirmed on Monday he would not go to meet the new president and on Tuesday Pro Bowl safety Devin McCourty also revealed he would not attend.

Explaining his reasons, McCourty said: "With the President having so many strong opinions and prejudices, I believe certain people might feel accepted there while others won't."

Linebacker Dont'a Hightower added his name to the list on Wednesday. When asked if he would attend, he told ESPN he's "been there, done that", referring to the Patriots' White House visit after winning the 2014 Super Bowl.

Defensive lineman Alan Branch, during a Wednesday interview, revealed his intention not to attend.

"I've got four kids at home so I'm just going to hang out with the family and continue celebrating until the next season starts," Branch told SiriusXM NFL Radio.

Running back LeGarrette Blount told The Dan Patrick Show on Thursday he is not interested.

"I will not be going to the White House," Blount said. "I don't feel welcome in that house. I'll leave it at that."

Later on Thursday, defensive end Chris Long became the first white Patriots player to confirm his intention to skip the ceremony on Twitter.

It remains to be seen if these six players will be joined by any other Patriots. Running back James White told SiriusXM NFL Radio on Tuesday night he was undecided.

The absence of these players is especially notable given Trump's personal relationships with Patriots owner Robert Kraft, coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady.

The US president took to Twitter after the game to congratulate the Patriots.