Rob Gronkowski hoping to play with specific star QB?

If Rob Gronkowski plays in 2022, it would be the first season in which Tom Brady is not his team’s starting quarterback entering the year. Though he could also retire, Gronkowski is scheduled to become a free agent in March. He may already have his eye on a specific team.

During a Q&A for Autograph NFTs on Tuesday, Gronkowski was asked which quarterback he would want to play with now that Brady has retired. He mentioned Joe Burrow without hesitation.

“I kinda like this young buck quarterback. He’s in the Super Bowl now: It’s Joe Burrow, man,” Gronkowski said, via Chris Mason of MLive.com. “I watched him in college. I just love the way he presents himself out on the football field. In the pocket he’s just so calm and he just slings it out on the field.

“I just love his swag, too. If I had to pick a quarterback it’d be the young buck Joe Burrow. He’s killing it right now in the game.”

Gronk has not committed to playing next season. He said his body is so beat up at the moment that he needs time to decide. But just in case, he is already pitching himself to the AFC champion Cincinnati Bengals.

Gronkowski caught 55 passes for 802 yards and six touchdowns this season despite missing five games. The 32-year-old is still capable of making an impact, but he probably would only play if he can contend for another Super Bowl. Cincinnati has cap space and a proven roster. If Gronk decides to play, the interest could be mutual.

Photo: Nov 15, 2020; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) on the sidelines in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports