Rob Gronkowski wanted to end his career where it began.
That led to the three-time Super Bowl champion signing a ceremonial one-day contact on Wednesday to retire a member of the New England Patriots.
“This
means a lot to me, big time, because I’m a New England Patriot. I’m a Patriot for life,” Gronkowski said. “My career started here, and 100 percent needed to end here. There’s no doubt about that.”
Gronkowski and the organization had previous plans to sign a one-day contract before the tight end eventually enters the team’s Hall of Fame. Those plans changed to allow Gronkowski to honor his long-time friend and local philanthropist, Susan Hurley.
As Gronkowski unveiled a new playground in Boston last August, in which he donated $1.8 million, Hurley asked to make it officially and retire a Patriot. Hurley then passed away on Nov. 1 after a battle with ovarian cancer, leading to Gronkowski honoring her wish.
“We are 100 percent here today for her. No doubt about that,” Gronkowski said. “When I first met her and she gave me the opportunity to give bibs to the Boston Marathon and the opportunity to raise money for my foundation, I knew that she was the one. I didn’t talk to anyone else, I’d never seen anyone have so much passion and so much grace for what they want to do.
“I knew that she would be special. She did an excellent job when working with her for 10 plus years. She made it seamless, made it easy. She ran all the activities, all the events, and she will have a lasting impact forever.”
A member of the NFL’s 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, Gronk is viewed as one of the greatest tight ends in the history of the NFL. Playing 11 seasons (nine with New England), he totaled 621 receptions for 9,286 yards and 92 touchdowns while adding 93 catches for 1,389 yards and 15 touchdowns in 22 playoff games.
Gronkowski, who leads the Patriots franchise with 79 touchdown receptions, was also named to the Patriots All-2010 Team and All-Dynasty Team, and is eligible for the team’s Hall of Fame next year.
“Today we’re going to celebrate one of the greatest ever to wear our Patriots uniform, in Rob Gronkowski,” Patriots owner Robert Kraft said. “His energy, talent, and infectious joy lit up the stadium and inspired Patriots Nation for nearly a decade. Like fans everywhere, I personally love Gronk and I treasure the unforgettable moments we shared.”
Prior to the Patriots Thursday Night football matchup against the New York Jets in Week 11, Gronkowski will serve as the Keeper of the Light and address the crowd during halftime.
