Bucs GM Jason Licht reacts to Rob Gronkowski trade

Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht is having a fantastic offseason. Not only did he sign six-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady, but he also landed Hall of Fame-caliber tight end Rob Gronkowski in a trade with the New England Patriots.

While many have begun calling Tampa Bay "New England South," Licht is overjoyed to have Gronkowski in the fold for 2020.

"Rob Gronkowski is one of the best tight ends in NFL history and he plays the game with the type of passion and desire that sets him apart," Licht said via Scott Smith of Buccaneers.com. "Rob has played his entire career alongside Tom Brady and their accomplishments speak for themselves. Together they have developed the type of chemistry on and off the field that is crucial to success. Rob combines elite-level skills as both a receiver and blocker but what really makes him special is the fact that he's a proven winner who brings that championship mindset and work ethic." 

Going from Jameis Winston and O.J. Howard to Brady and Gronkowski is quite the upgrade. Although the Bucs went 7-9 last season, they may actually make the playoffs for the first time since 2007.

Gronkowski and Brady share a bond like none other. The 30-year-old tight end had 521 receptions for 7,861 yards and 79 touchdowns in nine seasons with the Patriots.

While Gronkowski isn't exactly in football shape, the five-time Pro Bowler says he's been putting on weight in preparation for a return to football. In fact, he actually realized he wanted to come back shortly after Brady decided to sign with the Buccaneers ... shocker, right?

If coronavirus pandemic concerns lessen and the NFL season gets underway as scheduled, then football fans are in for a real treat with Brady and Gronkowski sharing the field once again.