Pro Bowl tight end Rob Gronkowski is coming back to NFL. Gronkowski’s agent Drew Rosenhaus revealed on Tuesday during an appearance on ESPN’s SportsCenter that his client unretired and will play with Tampa Bay Buccaneers next season, teaming up again with quarterback Tom Brady.
Gronkowski initially retired following the 2018 season as a member of New England Patriots, citing injuries and mental health as reasons for walking away from pro football after nine seasons. But it looks like the year off made the 30-year-old reconsider his decision.
“I’m back. I always said when I have that feeling and it feels right, I will be ready to take the field again. And I have that feeling. I’m ready,” Gronk told FoxSports, confirming the news.
Gronkowski was reportedly only willing to end his retirement if he was to play with Brady again. Patriots honored his wishes, agreeing to trade him to Tampa Bay in exchange for a fourth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Bucs confirmed the transaction on social media later on Tuesday.
“Rob Gronkowski is one of the best tight ends in NFL history and he plays the game with the type of passion and desire that sets him apart,” said Buccaneers’ general manager Jason Licht in a statement. “Rob has played his entire career alongside Tom Brady, and their accomplishments speak for themselves. Together they have developed the type of chemistry on and off the field that is crucial to success.”
Rob Gronkowski spent his entire career with New England Patriots, helping the team win three Super Bowls. During his time as a pro, Gronkowski established himself as one of the best tight ends in the history of the game, earning four First-team All-Pro honors and being selected to Pro Bowl five times.
Gronkowski currently sits at 521 career receptions for 7,861 yards and 79 touchdowns.
