Tom Brady [stats] hasn’t given an on-field interview during offseason workouts, choosing to remain silent while the questions persist about his expiring contract.

But as a team representative to the players union, Brady is speaking out against the proposed 18-game season.

On the same day NFL owners presented the plans for what they call the “enhanced season,” It is Brady’s first public act.

As the team’s assistant union representative (behind lead representative Matt Light [stats]), indicating he’s more than a figurehead.

Brady said he has played in seasons that - playoffs included - are 20 games long, suggesting that’s long enough. He also praised the union for raising awareness about how a lengthy season creates additional injuries.

“The long-term impact this game has on our bodies is well-documented,” Brady said. “Look no further than the players that came before we did. Each player today has to play three years in order to earn five years’ or post-career health care.”

Zoltan in fold

The Patriots agreed to terms with punter Zoltan Mesko, inking the fifth-round draft pick from Michigan to a four-year deal. The contract calls for a signing bonus of more than $187,000, a source said, with escalators in the final year and a base value of $1.98 million.

The team recently cut David King, the only other punter on the roster, but Mesko is trying not to take it as a sign that the job is his, even if it may be reality.

“It’s crazy that someone can be gone just like that,” Mesko said. “But I’m not taking it (as a positive). I still have a lot and lot way to go.”

Williams surprises

One standout from mini-camp has been linebacker Thomas Williams, who was signed to the practice squad last November. He’s been in the mix with players such as Jerod Mayo, Gary Guyton and Brandon Spikes, while also trying his hand at fullback.

Williams last played fullback at Southern Cal, and such versatility could help him earn a job.

“It’s fun,” Williams said. “They asked me to do it, so I said, ‘Sure, why not? Whatever you guys want me to do, Listen, I’m here.’ I want to help this team win.”

A sparring sessionThe most spirited part of the second day of minicamp came during the goal-line passing drills. With trash-talking in the air, the units traded blows. The offense scored several times, while the defense made some notable stops.

“It’s like a heavyweight bout right now,” safety James Sanders [stats] said. “Or, should I say, like (talks for) the (Manny) Pacquiao-(Floyd) Mayweather bout. Going back and forth. It’s just real competitive and we’re having fun.” . . .Former Brown star Buddy Farnham, an undrafted free agent, is trying to make it as a wide receiver and special teams player. The Andover resident received advice from a familiar face, ex-Patriot and fellow Brown alum Sean Morey.“He’s been a great mentor, this whole process,” Farnham said. “I talk to him a lot. (He says) nothing but good things.”