Rob Gronkowski responds to Josh McDaniels' comments about A.J. Brown

New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels raised eyebrows when he said that "the closest thing" he has seen to new Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown is legendary tight end and New England icon Rob Gronkowski.

During a Monday appearance on the FanDuel TV "Up & Adams" program, Gronkowski was asked about McDaniels' comment.

Why Rob Gronkowski sees some of himself in A.J. Brown

"I love that comparison," Gronkowski said, per Karen Guregian of MassLive. "That was really cool to see him say that. ...Josh McDaniels knows what he’s talking about, and I understand what he’s saying. A.J. Brown is a big body out there. He’s a force to be reckoned with. He’s a guy that takes attention from the defense even when the ball’s not going to him. Even with a run play, you’re still going to have attention." 

Gronkowski played under McDaniels and legendary head coach Bill Belichick during the Patriots' dynastic run of the 2000s. Gronkowski is listed at 6-foot-6 and 265 pounds, while Brown is 6-foot-1 and 226 pounds. 

Gronkowski and Brown aren't exactly like-for-like players. That said, the Patriots are expected to target Brown in certain man-coverage and red-zone situations. 

In short, Brown could become the Gronkowski of the current New England offense that features 2025 MVP finalist Drake Maye as its starting quarterback. 

"A.J. Brown uses his body to get open," Gronkowski explained. "That’s how I got open a lot. I was never really running by guys. I used my body, blocked out guys, and [quarterback Tom Brady] would put the ball where I could only go up (and get it). That’s the same with A.J. Brown. That’s probably what Josh McDaniels sees in him. A.J. Brown is always open because he’s such a big-bodied guy with great hands." 

Rob Gronkowski feels Patriots "needed" A.J. Brown

As Gronkowski noted, a Patriots team that lost to the Seattle Seahawks in this year's Super Bowl "needed" a proven No. 1 wide receiver. On paper, Brown could become the best target Maye has ever had during the young signal-caller's career. 

"Their offense is complete," Gronkowski added about the Patriots. "Their defense is very solid. So I see them having another solid year. But that A.J. Brown trade and having him as their No. 1 now elevated this roster big time." 

History shows Brown could become a negative for the Patriots if he starts to feel frustrated with how he's used on game days. For now, Gronkowski is among those who feel that acquiring Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles was a risk worth taking for New England.