For years, the New England Patriots had the best quarterback-tight end combination in the National Football League. Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski excelled together in winning multiple Super Bowl titles.

That’s why, even though they both went on to team up with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and won a title with them, Gronkowski still has strong ties to the New England franchise. With that in mind, he recently announced major retirement plans.

“Here’s 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 said.

Are @RobGronkowski and @TomBrady going for the Bucs or Pats today?!

Gronk says he’s rooting for New England ahead of signing his one-day contract this week to retire a Patriot! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/OUOxnOfhwy

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 9, 2025

Some believe that Gronkowski is the greatest tight end to ever play. Though some of his records no longer stand, the fact that he played 11 NFL seasons with the injuries he suffered speaks volumes about his impact.

Unlike most star pass-catching tight ends, “Gronk” was an absolute force as a blocker as well, especially in the open field. He never hesitated to put his body on the line to help someone else make a play.

In addition, whenever Brady found him roaming free down the middle of the field, it was bad news for the other team. It usually took multiple hits and bodies to take him down, and there was no effective defense against him, especially in the red zone.

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