Speaking publicly for the first time since his strong quotes about NFL commissioner Roger Goodell appeared on Sports Illustrated’s website, New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees said he was surprised at the public reaction his comments drew.

“I think it was blown out of proportion a little bit when people said I was bashing the commissioner,’’ Brees told the local media Wednesday. “That was not the case. That was all I said and I really have nothing else to say about it.’’

A marquee player saying nobody trusts Goodell isn’t a pretty big deal? I think it is. Also, I’ve been around Brees enough through the years to realize he’s a very media-savvy guy. He’s not one of those guys that says the first thing that pops into his mind and then thinks about it after the fact. Brees said what he said and I’m sure he gave it plenty of thought before speaking.

Like I said, Brees is a big boy and he can deal with any fallout that may come from his comments.

“If there is any dialogue that needs to take place I would talk to the commissioner directly,’’ Brees said. “By no means was that meant to be disrespectful. I was asked direct questions about how the players felt and I gave a very honest and direct answer.’’

Maybe it’s just me, but Brees gave an honest and direct answer. He shouldn’t have anything to worry about.