Rumors of Rob Gronkowski coming out of retirement popped up once again this week when the former Pro Bowl tight end refused to rule out a return, and it appears he is legitimately thinking about making a comeback.
Gronkowski has informed the New England Patriots that he is interested in returning to the NFL to play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports. The Patriots may be open to working out a trade with the Bucs, as Rapoport notes that the two teams have been in contact.
The #Patriots and #Bucs have had some communication, from what I’m told. It’s not unprecedented — the #Seahawks and #Raiders did a similar trade with Marshawn Lynch. https://t.co/oS3vOXeKC9
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 21, 2020
#Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski has, in fact, begin putting on weight for a return to football, sources say. He’s ready. He wants to return. And Tom Brady wants him back for the #Bucs, too.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 21, 2020
ESPN’s Adam Schefter also reports that the Bucs have had discussions with the Patriots about a potential trade involving Gronkowski.
Patriots and Buccaneers have been discussing a trade for retired TE Rob Gronkowski, per league sources. Gronkowski has one year and $10 million left on his contract. But the two sides are, and have been talking, prior to Thursday’s draft.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 21, 2020
Gronkowski was asked about the rumors that he wants to team up with Tom Brady in Tampa during an appearance on “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen” this week, and he stopped short of ruling it out. The 30-year-old said he has remained in great shape and is “not totally done” but needs to feel that desire to play football again.
If Gronk does come out of retirement, it makes sense that he would only want to do it for the Bucs. Gronk admitted that he essentially blocked a trade a few years back because he didn’t want to catch passes from any quarterback other than Tom Brady.
Gronkowski recently poked fun at one of the rumors that claimed he is looking to make a comeback, but it sounds like he is ready to make it happen. He has also launched a wrestling career since retiring, though that can likely be put on hold.
Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski have teamed up yet again! Treat yourself or a friend with this great Tampa Fiesta shirt. You can buy it here.
