New England Patriots: 3 things Rob Gronkowski said ahead of training camp

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - FEBRUARY 04: Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots makes a 42-yard touchdown reception against Ronald Darby #41 of the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LII at U.S. Bank Stadium on February 4, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - FEBRUARY 04: Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots makes a 42-yard touchdown reception against Ronald Darby #41 of the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LII at U.S. Bank Stadium on February 4, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images)
(Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images) /

On retirement…

With Rob Gronkowski’s injury history, there is no doubt the physicality he has endured has taken a toll on his body and mind.

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So, when he was asked about possibly retiring following that tough Super Bowl LII loss back in early February, Gronk’s non-committal answer was based on how he was feeling at that particular moment.  Coming off a tough loss and mentally dejected, the franchise’s all-time leader in touchdown receptions told Raskin he just needed time to see how he would feel after the long season.

"“I was seeing how I was recovering, how my body was feeling,” Gronkowski said.  “Taking a little break mentally and physically from the game.  Just seeing how I felt and seeing if I wanted to do it another year and if I was able to endure another season.  That was the main thing.  I feel like I’m ready to go, physically and mentally.”"

Certainly, good news for New England Patriots fans.  But, all the uncertainly drove fans crazy for weeks and even led to the team to reportedly field trade offers for the big tight end.

Along with the apparent friction with Bill Belichick, Rob Gronkowski’s actions were beginning to wear thin.  So much in fact that a trade prior to the 2018 NFL Draft wouldn’t have been a shock at all.

But, now that he is back on board and feeling good for the moment, it is good to have one of Tom Brady’s top and favorite weapons back in the mix.