He brought one of the most-liked personalities ever to the NFL and a trademark spike came with each of his 80 touchdowns. But after nine years at the top of his position, New England Patriots favourite Rob Gronkowski is announcing his retirement.
"It all started at 20-years-old on-stage at the NFL Draft when my dream came true, and now here I am about to turn 30... with a decision I feel is the biggest of my life so far," wrote Gronkowski on Instagram: "I will be retiring from the game of football today."
In a message that thanked Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, owner Robert Kraft and the team's fans around the world, the 29-year-old tight end said: "Cheers to all who have been part of this journey, cheers to the past for the incredible memories, and a HUGE cheers to the uncertainty of what's next."
Belichick praised Gronkowski in a statement released after the news, saying "Rob was a major reason why we won games and championships. His elite combination of size, skill, intelligence, toughness and ability to perform in pressure situations set him apart... Rob will leave an indelible mark on the Patriots organization and the game as among the best, most complete players at his position to ever play."
While the news is coming later than anticipated, it was well-documented that the four-time All-Pro tight end was considering leaving the game. Gronkowski's departure likely comes so he can explore a number of different avenues, and according to agent Drew Rosenhaus, could involve "TV, acting... Appearances. Endorsements. He's one of the biggest personalities. He won't disappear."
Gronkowski's 79 receiving touchdowns are the third-most in NFL history before age 30, and third all-time for a tight end. He is tied for second all-time in post-season receiving touchdowns while his 80 total touchdowns are most in Patriots’ history. On his nine NFL seasons, Gronkowski totaled 521 catches for 7,861 yards receiving.
While the numbers don't suggest complete dominance, Gronkowski was a nightmare match-up when healthy. He could get down-field and beat defensive backs despite a 6'6", wide frame, evidenced beautifully by his last ever catch -- a 29-yard gain that all but iced the Super Bowl 53 and got him his third ring.
A power-house player since entering the league as a second round pick in 2010, Gronkowski's departure will leave a hole in the Patriots locker room entering next season.
And while there's no longer a lot of certainty surrounding Gronkowski's future, one thing that is for sure: his place in Canton one day.
COVER PHOTO: Sports Illustrated
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