There is a growing consensus around the league that Rob Gronkowski will not stay retired for very long, and that he’ll be back with the New England Patriots before the 2019 season is through.
If that does happen, it’s hardly shocking to know that Gronkowski would be welcomed back “with open arms.” That’s what veteran defensive back Devin McCourty told reporters Wednesday, along with a joke about his brother coming to New England last year:
Gronk is, of course, still one of the NFL’s best tight ends. Despite a myriad of injuries the past few years he’s still able to make a huge impact both in the run game as a devastating blocker, and as a circus-catching freak of a receiver.
Recently, a person close to Gronkowski reportedly pegged his return at 40% this year. As the regular season approaches, that figure will probably rise. If he’s still away from the game come November of December, and if the Patriots need him, don’t be surprised if it skyrockets to 100.