Rob Gronkowski wouldn’t stray from the only quarterback he has known.
Speaking to reporters following New England’s demoralizing 26-10 loss to Detroit on Sunday night, the 29-year-old tight end confirmed he would have retired rather than play for a team without Tom Brady under center, even Matt Patricia’s Lions.
“Yeah, it happened,” Gronkowski said, according to ESPN. “Brady’s my quarterback, that’s all. Wasn’t going anywhere without Brady.”
Ahead of the Patriots’ primetime matchup against the team’s former defensive coordinator, ESPN.com reported Gronkowski had threatened retirement after hearing he was on the verge of being dealt to Detroit. League sources confirmed to the website that the five-time Pro Bowler didn’t want to play anywhere except for New England.
Brady told WEEI on Monday morning that the feeling is mutual.
“That speaks to our relationship. I feel as strongly about him. I love the guy,” Brady said.
Gronkowski ultimately met with Patriots officials, putting the kibosh on the trade. The two parties later re-worked his contract, adding $4.3 million in incentives, including $1 million in per-game roster bonuses.