Rob Gronkowski retires, won’t join Tom Brady for 3rd season with Bucs

TAMPA, Fla. –

Rob Gronkowski will not be joining Tom Brady for the Buccaneers’ third season.

The four-time All-Pro tighten announced his retirement on Tuesday. Gronkowski thanked his coaches and teammates over the years in an Instagram post. saidHe’s returning to “chilling in.”

Gronkowski won four Super Bowls along with Brady, including three in New England.

Gronkowski shared his gratitude via Instagram. “I will now be going into my retirement home, walking away football again with my head held high, knowing I gave it everything I could, good or poor, every time I stepped onto the field. The friendships I have made and the relationships I have built will last a lifetime. I also want to thank my coaches and teammates who gave everything they had.

After nine seasons with the Patriots in 2019, the 33-year-old retired. He returned to the team in 2020 when Brady joined the Buccaneers. The two friends became close friends to help Tampa beat Kansas City Chiefs at the Super Bowl in 2021. Gronkowski was able to catch two touchdown passes during that game.

Brady wrote that Brady loved Gronkowski as a friend, colleague, and man. “One-of-a-kind in every way.”

Brady and the Buccaneers hoped Gronkowski would return for another season. However, Tampa prepared for Gronkowski’s departure in the draft by selecting Cade Otton in round four and Ko Kieft sixth. The Buccaneers have also retained Cameron Brate, a veteran tight-end.

“Rob is a true professional, who left it all on field for us during the past two seasons,” Buccaneers general manger Jason Licht stated. saidIn a statement. “It is always hard to see a great player leave the game while he is still enjoying that level of success. But the overwhelming emotions I feel today is gratitude and respect for one the greatest tight ends ever to play the game.”

Gronkowski, a fun-loving player, will be hard to replace. Gronkowski was not just one of the league’s top pass-catching tight end but also one the most skilled blockers at his position. Gronk was well-known for his toughness and willingness to play through injuries and physical challenges.

His infectious personality and humor made him one the most beloved players in the league.

Drew Rosenhaus, Gronkowski’s agent told ESPN that it wouldn’t surprise him that Brady would call him and talk him out of retiring at some point during the season. Brady ended his 40-day retirement in March to start his 23rd season.

Gronk is now done with the NFL.

He ended his career with 621 receptions for 9,286 yard and 92 touchdowns in the regular-season. He had 98 receptions and 1,389 yards of receiving.