Retired NFL star Rob Gronkowski, a four-time Super Bowl champion, remains in the spotlight for his blunt remarks on the league, despite not playing since the 2021 season. While adamant about his retirement, he disclosed attempts by certain NFL teams to lure him back onto the field.
In addition to shedding light on potential comebacks, Gronkowski offered intriguing perspectives on Bill Belichick’s future with the New England Patriots.
Rob Gronkowski reveals Giants’ serious attempt
Rob Gronkowski, a retired tight end, generated headlines and speculation about a possible return to the NFL, specifically with the New York Giants. Gronk pointed out that Brian Daboll, a coach, had the best chance of convincing him to come out of retirement.
In an interview with Kay Adams, the former TE humorously suggested that Daboll wanted him on the Giants’ roster. Contrary to the initial impression of it being a joke, he revealed that he received calls from two teams in the offseason.
“I got a call from two teams in the offseason, but you know, just wasn’t interested. I mean, they’re great teams. It would have been a great situation, but I just wasn’t ready to go.”
Despite acknowledging these teams as great opportunities, he wasn’t ready to make a return to the NFL. Rob Gronkowski clarified that one of the teams pursuing him was the New York Giants, mainly due to his positive history with coach Brian Daboll.
“It wasn’t the Bills. Well, first off it was kind of out there, it was the Giants because of Brian Daboll. He was my position coach for three years here and I loved having him as my position coach.”
Gronk expressed admiration for Daboll, highlighting his positive qualities and the enjoyable experience of being coached by him.
“He was just a great guy, great attitude, brought the juice to the table every single time but I mean he knew it was kind of like a home run. We talk every once in a while and he was like, ‘Yo, come out, come out, come with us. You and Darren Waller, you guys would be a great duo’ and I was like, ‘I know we would be but bro, I’m good, I’m done.’”
Daboll, who was Gronkowski’s position coach for three years, actively tried to recruit him, envisioning a strong duo with Darren Waller. Despite the tempting offer and potential for a great story, the former TE declined the opportunity to return.
Gronkowski dispels Belichick retirement speculations
Rob Gronkowski, who believes Tom Brady is responsible for the Patriots’ struggles, anticipates that Bill Belichick will remain the head coach of the New England Patriots in 2024.
Gronkowski emphasized Belichick’s deep love and dedication to football.
“The guy loves football,” Gronk shared about the HC. “He breathes football. He eats football. He sleeps football. He yells football—let me tell you that!”
He asserted there is “no chance” Belichick will retire at the end of the current season, dispelling retirement speculations.
While ruling out retirement, Rob Gronkowski acknowledged a potential scenario where Belichick and Patriots owner Robert Kraft agree to a mutual parting of ways, though he expresses skepticism about this happening.
The New England Patriots have faced challenges over the past two seasons after making the playoffs in 2021. They currently have 10 losses through 13 games this season. While there were speculations about the Patriots getting rid of Bill Belichick, Gronk has denied all such rumors.
Rob Gronkowski, having played for Belichick for nine years from 2010 to ’18, is someone who might have insights into Belichick’s plans.
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