The Tampa Bay Buccaneers acquired Rob Gronkowski in a trade with the New England Patriots on Tuesday, reuniting the tight end with his former quarterback, Tom Brady. It’s no surprise to now hear that Brady was largely behind the move.
NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport says Brady told teams he was interested in free agency that he wanted to reunite with Gronk. Rapoport says the real issue was figuring out whether Gronk would be willing to come out of retirement.
From @NFLTotalAccess Draft Preview: QB Tom Brady brought the idea of bringing TE Rob Gronkowski with him to Tampa Bay to the #Bucs, and Brady's idea sparked a trade. pic.twitter.com/tlmu2FK4Yw
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 22, 2020
Gronkowski did not look like his typical self during the 2018 season, which was his final year before retiring and missing the 2019 season. Gronk admitted that he dragged his way through the 2018 season, even though New England won the Super Bowl.
Coming out of retirement to play with the Bucs seems to indicate a few things. One, Gronk (and Brady) were tired of playing for the Patriots. And two, that after a year off, Gronk feels refreshed enough — both mentally and physically — to pursue a fun, new challenge with his old quarterback.
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.
