Rob Gronkowski always had a good time on and off the field during his days in the NFL, but it looks like Gronk is enjoying retirement too much to return to the gridiron.
ESPN's Michele Steele figured an invite from Tom Brady could get the former tight end back in pads. But when asked during an episode of Fox NFL Sunday if that was a possibility, Gronk stood firm in his retirement.
"First off, I'm saying I love the guy," Gronk answered. "No, I'm not going back."
If he wanted to be eligible for the playoffs, Gronk would have to let it be known that he willing to return by Saturday. He and the Pats would then have to do all the medical clearances, solidify his contract, and work him into the rotation before the season ends. While Brady has been vocal about how poorly his offense has been playing, trying to get Gronk back to supplement their performance would be a pretty hefty task.
Gronk's definitive no was more of a maybe during another recent interview with ESPN.
"I wouldn't say 'never coming back.' I'm 30 years old. I'm young. I still stay fit, still watch the game whenever I can, still enjoy it. I'm feeling good, but you know, one year off could possibly be the case. Or maybe two years off, man," Gronk said. "It's always an option in the back of my head. It's not like I'm not staying in shape and not doing anything. I'm never stressed over it."
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