Pepper Johnson, with the team since 2000, abruptly leaves

ESPNBoston's Mike Reiss reported this morning that Pepper Johnson would be leaving the New England Patriots.

For those that don't know, Johnson has been on the Patriots coaching staff since 2000. His ties with Belichick go way back as he was a defensive lineman on the Super Bowl winning Giants teams of which Belichick was defensive coordinator.

Johnson has had several roles on the defense, and was even a strong candidate to replace Dean Pees as defensive coordinator a few years ago. He most recently held the title of linebackers coach, the last two years. This after coaching the defensive line for seven years.

Given the close relationship between Pepper and Belichick, the news comes as a shock. Is it the result of a falling out, is it as simple as Johnson wanting to move on to other opportunities? Was there an issue over the Brandon Spikes situation?

The story should become more clear as time passes, and we'll continue to update to you.

Statement via ESPN:

“Today marks a new day for me. Today is a new day full of promise and hope. It is also a day to reflect, as I embark upon a new journey. Today is the first day in 13 years that I am not a part of the New England Patriots, although I will always be a Patriot in my heart. Today also marks the first day in 26 years that I am not working in some capacity with one of greatest head coaches of all time, as well as my friend, Bill Belichick.

“Football is my life. From putting my body on the line, my hand in the dirt, to teaching others to do the same, this will continue for me ... I have big dreams and goals and they all involve football. So as I soak in this new day and embark on wherever my new path takes me, I shall embrace this new chapter in my life.

“I thank the entire New England Patriot Organization for the last 13 years of my life. I am proud of all the things we have accomplished. The Kraft family is one of a kind and I will always be grateful to them and hold them in the highest regard. Bill Belichick and I have been working together in some capacity for 26 years and I am who I am because of it. To have five Super Bowl rings (2 as a player 3 as a coach) and all of them with Bill has been a blessing. I could never have asked for a better coach/boss/friend in those 26 years. Thanks for always supporting me and I know Bill will continue to support me no matter what.

“Thank you New England Patriot fans I will miss you the most.”