Rob Gronkowski, the former standout tight end known for his remarkable career alongside quarterback Tom Brady, made a significant announcement this past Sunday. As the two former stars are now part of the Fox NFL coverage team, anticipation grew for their upcoming analysis of the much-anticipated clash between their former teams, the New England Patriots and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in their Week 11 matchup.
In a surprising turn, Gronkowski revealed he will be signing a one-day contract with the Patriots, allowing him to retire as a Patriot and solidify his lifelong connection to the franchise. “Here is some news, first, everyone. I am signing a one-day contract with the Patriots this week, coming up, to retire as a Patriot and be a Patriot for life,” Gronkowski announced during the Fox NFL broadcast.
Expressing his allegiance, Gronkowski stated he would be rooting for the Patriots in the upcoming game. In a playful jab at Brady, he added, “But I know Tom, and he is still bitter the Patriots let him go for his final three seasons in the NFL.”
Brady, who has previously expressed a reluctance to choose between his two former teams due to his friendships on both sides, commented on the situation with humor. He noted that only New England had honored him with a statue outside of Gillette Stadium, making his loyalties funnier than serious. “So the ball’s in your court, Tampa,” Brady quipped during a live segment.
Gronkowski, a four-time Super Bowl champion, began his illustrious career as a Patriots second-round draft pick in 2010 and spent nearly a decade in New England before briefly retiring in 2019. Following his retirement, much like Brady, he returned to the field to join the Buccaneers in 2020, where he achieved another Super Bowl victory, solidifying his legacy before retiring again in 2021.
His one-day contract signing is reminiscent of several NFL legends who have chosen to retire with the teams where they had the most significant impact, including Hall of Famers like Jerry Rice, Ladainian Tomlinson, and Emmitt Smith.
Gronkowski’s announcement not only emphasizes the deep-rooted ties players often have to their original teams but also serves to heighten the excitement surrounding the Patriots and Buccaneers matchup this season. As fans look forward to this game, both Gronk and Brady continue to embody the spirit and camaraderie that define the NFL.