Rob Gronkowski on Returning to the NFL: ‘I’m Not Going Back’

Rob Gronkowski always had a good time on and off the field during his days in the NFL, but it looks like Gronk is enjoying retirement too much to return to the gridiron. 

ESPN’s Michele Steele figured if one man could get the tight end back in pads it would be his former teammate and future Hall of Fame quarterback, Tom Brady. But when asked during an episode of Fox NFL Sunday if TB12 could get him to join the roster for the playoffs, Gronk stood firm in his retirement.

“First off, I’m saying I love the guy,” Gronk answered. “No, I’m not going back.” 

Part of the reason Gronk might decline this hypothetical request is that it came at too short of notice. If he wanted to be eligible for the playoffs, Gronk would have to let it be known that he willing to return by Saturday. He and the Pats would then have to do all the medical clearances, solidify his contract, and work him into the rotation before the season ends. While Brady has been vocal about how poorly his offense has been playing, trying to get Gronk back to supplement their performance would be a pretty hefty task. 

Still, the door isn’t closed for Gronk’s eventual return. During a recent interview with ESPN.com, Gronk explained that coming back to the NFL is “always an option.” 

“I wouldn’t say ‘never coming back.’ I’m 30 years old. I’m young. I still stay fit, still watch the game whenever I can, still enjoy it. I’m feeling good, but you know, one year off could possibly be the case. Or maybe two years off, man,” Gronk said. “It’s always an option in the back of my head. It’s not like I’m not staying in shape and not doing anything. I’m never stressed over it.”