Rob Gronkowski announces retirement from the NFL
Rob Gronkowski was drafted 42nd overall in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. Later that summer, he signed a four-year contract worth $4.4 million. In 2010 Gronkowski played in all 16 games, catching 42 receptions for 546 yards and 10 touchdowns. From the beginning, people were talking about how much value Gronkowski could bring to a team. The 2011 season was his best one, having 90 receptions for 1,327 yards and a career-high 17 touchdowns. Throughout his nine years with the Patriots Gronkowski had 521 receptions for 7,861 yards and 79 touchdowns. As he announced his retirement from football on Sunday night lets look back at the greatest of Rob Gronkowski on and off the field.
Lets start in the beginning of his career in 2011. He was a year into the league and already making headlines. It was week 14 of the 2011 season the Patriots were on the road against the Washington Redskins. Brady had himself a day throwing for 357 yards and three touchdowns. The Patriots won 34-27. But this would be Gronkowski’s stand out game. He set a record that day for most touchdowns catches in a single game by a tight end. The standout play was when Gronk was carrying two defenders on his back without going down.
Gronkowski loves to party. If there was one guy on the Patriots you had to party with it would probably be Gronk. From the dancing on stage, to partying hard after a Super Bowl, the 6’6″ giant is the life of any party he attends. However, when it came down to business he knew it was time to focus. What makes Gronkowski great is he knows there’s a time to party and time to be serious. At this Super Bowl Parade maybe in the back of his mind, this was his last ride so he thought he go all out. Well, he did from drinking beer to drinking wine, to catching beers from fans.
Gronk will be remembered for his leadership and playmaking
Gronkowski had great leadership in the locker room being a role model for his teammates. He and Brady had great chemistry and he always came up big when he was needed the most. Whether it was blocking or making a big play they knew they could count on Gronk. He also did a lot in the community for charity work. He’s the founder of the Gronk Youth Foundation, which inspires youth to reach their maximum potential through sports education, community, and fitness.
Gronkowski had lots of memorbale moments
After the Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles he was contemplating retirement. But decided to come back and play at another shot at winning the Super Bowl. Gronk caught three touchdowns this season, and had 47 receptions for 682 yards. The last catch of his career came in the Super Bowl down the sideline to set up the game-winning touchdown by running back Sony Michel. His leadership and playmaking will be missed. But he is without a doubt a first ballot Hall Of Famer, and a three-time Super Bowl Champion.
