Rob Gronkowski is making his return to the NFL, but don't worry Jets fans, he won't be terrorizing you in the AFC East.

The New England Patriots have struck a deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to send Gronk and a seventh-round pick for a fourth-round pick in return, according to multiple reports. The deal is pending a passed physical by the All-Pro tight end.

So, yes, Gronkowski is returning to the NFL to play with his favorite quarterback once again: Tom Brady. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Gronkowski only wanted to play with Brady, and expressed that desire to the Patriots.

The 30-year-old left the NFL following the Patriots' Super Bowl victory during the 2018-19 season. There was tons of speculation that Gronk couldn't stay away from the game last season, but he remained true to his word and didn't come back.

However, he sees an opportunity now to join forces with Brady, who is making the very intriguing transition to Tampa Bay to play for Bruce Arians and the Bucs after 20 seasons in a Patriots uniform. Gronkowski has only known the Patriots as well, playing nine seasons with them after New England took him 42nd overall in the 2010 NFL Draft.

Gronk was one of Brady's favorite targets during his time with the Pats, collecting 521 receptions for 7,861 yards and 79 touchdowns in 115 games. However, he left the game mostly due to his extensive injury history, so it'll be interesting to hear his exact explanation for returning other than wanting to be in Brady's offense again.

But... it's no worry for the Jets. They don't need to deal with Brady or Gronk anymore, as they're out of the division and they won't see the Bucs in out of conference play.

So the four-time All-Pro, five-time Pro Bowler, and three-time Super Bowl champ can have fun in sunny Florida next season.

Video: SNY Out of Office Replies: Ralph needs some quiet

Popular in the Community