Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Rob Gronkowski Doesn’t Want Tom Brady to Follow in His Footsteps

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Athlon Trending News Team | Last updated Nov 12, 2025 1:53 PM ET

Former New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski says he doesn’t believe Tom Brady needs to follow in his footsteps following his official retirement on Wednesday.

Gronkowski, a four-time Super Bowl champion, has signed a one-day contract to retire as a Patriot, having spent nine of his 11 years in the NFL with the team.

While the erstwhile stars teamed up for a successful championship run with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, they will be best remembered for their time with the Patriots and the achievements made while with the AFC East franchise.

Gronkowski, as noted above, signed a short contract to retire as a member of his old team. However, he reckons such a move is not necessary for Brady, considering his status.

Former New England Patriots quarterback Tom BradyPaul Rutherford-Imagn Images

"We all know Tom is a Patriot for life... he doesn't even need to sign one,” he replied after being asked whether the ex-quarterback needs to sign a one-day contract to retire with New England as well.

Rob Gronkowski on if Tom Brady should sign a one-day contract:

"We all know Tom is a Patriot for life... he doesn't even need to sign one."
— Sophie Weller (@sophieewellerr) November 12, 2025

Brady, who announced some notable personal news earlier this week, won his first six Super Bowls with the Patriots.

Most fans wouldn’t have imagined that he would wear any other uniform, yet he ended up in Tampa Bay, where he proved he was still just as formidable, leading them to glory in 2020.

Brady has since transitioned to broadcasting and is the No. 1 football analyst at FOX Sports. The 49-year-old called Super Bowl 59 between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs in February.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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