Rob Gronkowski can speak freely, now that he’s no longer under the employment of Bill Belichick. And so the retired New England Patriots tight end can discuss Belichick candidly.
While on TV as an NFL analyst for “FOX NFL Sunday,” Gronk was asked to provide a comparison for Belichick. It wasn’t flattering.
“On a daily basis, The Grinch,” Gronkowski said. “He’s always trying to take away the fun sometimes ’cause it’s all business. Taking away the fun and then here I come, you know, all jolly, I’m Santa Claus. Ho Ho Ho.”
It paints the image everyone probably imagined: Gronk spread joy around Gillette Stadium — and Belichick killed it.
The comparison — though obvious — is one that Gronk probably wouldn’t have made while with the Patriots. Belichick tends to keep his players on edge, even if they’re one of the best players at their position, like Gronk was. But of course, it’s probably not enough to keep Belichick from taking back Gronk, if the tight end decided he wanted to return to the NFL and come out of retirement.
For now, Gronk seems content with his decision to end his playing career. During a recent interview with WEEI, Gronk said “it’s a no” when asked about a return from retirement.
“I would have to be feeling it — mentally, physically,” Gronk said. “Like a couple of weeks of me feeling it, like I need to play football again.”
Meanwhile, the Patriots have a serious need at tight end. Perhaps The Grinch’s heart will grow three sizes, and Belichick will give Gronk a call to persuade him into a return.
