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

TAMPA, Fla. –

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

On Tuesday, the four-time All-Pro tighten announced his retirement for a second time in three year’s. Gronkowski thanked all his coaches and teammates for their support over the years via Instagram. 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 that I gave everything I had, no matter how bad or good. I will cherish the friendships and relationships that I have made and I am grateful to my coaches and teammates for giving everything they had.

After nine seasons with Patriots, the 33-year old retired in 2019. He returned to the Buccaneers in 2020, when Brady was there. The two close friends came together to help Tampa beat Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 2021. Gronkowski caught two touchdown passes that day.

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

Brady and the Buccaneers hoped Gronkowski would return for another season. However, Tampa prepared for Gronkowski’s departure by selecting Cade Otton and Ko Kieft as tight ends in the fourth round. 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’s always difficult to see a great athlete leave the game while he is enjoying that kind of success. But, the overwhelming emotions I feel today were gratitude and respect for one my favorite tight ends.”

Gronkowski, a fun-loving player, will be hard to replace. He was not only one league’s top pass-catcher tight ends but also one of its best blockers. Gronk was well-known for his toughness and willingness to play through injuries and physical challenges.

His infectious personality and humor made him a popular player in the league.

Drew Rosenhaus, Gronkowski’s agent, said to ESPN that it wouldn’t surprise him if Brady called him to talk him out the retirement. Brady ended his 40-day retirement in March to start his 23rd season.

Gronk is now done with the NFL.

He finishes his career with 621 catches, 9,286 yards and 92 touchdowns in regular season. He had 98 receptions, 1,389 yards, and 15 TDs in postseason.