BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – APRIL 09: Rob Gronkowski of the New England Patriots raises the Lombardi Trophy as he walks onto the field before the Red Sox home opening game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park on April 09, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Antonio Brown is set to debut for the Patriots next week. Is it possible that Rob Gronkowski intends to join him to forge an unstoppable attack?
The Patriots decision to trade Demaryius Thomas to the Jets leaves New England with an open roster spot. Judging by Rob Gronkowski’s latest social media activity. The former All-Pro tight end might have an interest in become taking the 53rd spot on the Patriots’ roster.
Gronkowski didn’t say anything about wanting to report back to Bill Belichick’s squad, but his use of eye emojis on Twitter will definitely get everyone talking. The idea of Gronkowki joining a star-studded offense that already includes Tom Brady, Antonio Brown, Josh Gordon and Julian Edelman is enough to get everyone in the NFL talking.
The rationale for a Gronkowski return now is pretty simple. When he made the decision to call it a career, he was the focal point for an offense that was short on star power at wide receiver. That’s no longer the case in Foxborough. The reinstatement of Gordon combined with the surprise free agency signing of Brown gives Brady more targets on the outside than he’s ever had before.
That also means a big, athletic tight end like Gronkowski could enjoy a lot of room to work with in the middle of the field. Opposing defenses wouldn’t stand a chance to double team both outside guys and pay proper attention to Gronkowski running down the seam. If he returns to the Patriots this season, he could enjoy the easiest season of his career.
Patriots fans should keep a close eye on Gronkowski over the next 24 hours. If Brown’s acquisition brings him back into the fold for New England, this team could be staring 16-0 in the face.