Robert Kraft Reportedly Told Rob Gronkowski He Wants the TE Back for the Stretch Run
By Jerry Trotta
It's pretty apparent the New England Patriots offense will be the only thing capable of holding them back this year. Ironic, right?
As we know, Bill Belichick's defense is the best he's ever had in Foxborough, but Tom Brady and Co. currently rank 15th in the NFL in terms of yards per game.
Well, Pats owner Robert Kraft is aware of those struggles, and insider Ian Rapoport understands that he recently reached out to the retired Rob Gronkowski to try and get him back on the gridiron.
From @NFLGameDay: #Patriots owner Robert Kraft told Rob Gronkowski he wants him back for November, December, and the playoffs. But the clock is ticking until the deadline of Nov. 30 (https://t.co/oUhq0cWR3K) pic.twitter.com/XqgegtEAEa
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 10, 2019
Per NFL rules, Gronk is still eligible to apply for reinstatement, but time is quickly running out for him to do so. Currently on the league's reserve/retired list, the five-time Pro Bowler will have to come to a settlement before the Patriots 13th game of 2019, which is Saturday, Nov. 30.
At this rate, there's just no way to tell which side Gronkowski is leaning towards, but when asked about a potential return, he has been consistent with leaving the door open.
As the deadline for #Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski to come out of retirement looms, worth noting: Owner Robert Kraft told Gronk at locker clean-out day he wants him back for the stretch run. My story: https://t.co/Ww8xqJzawA
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 10, 2019
Either way, we will know of Gronk's ambitions in a little over two weeks, and football fans around the country will surely be on the edge of their seats in anticipation of his decision as it could significantly shift the playoff outlook in the AFC.