The Patriots tight end has the support of at least two HOF voters who say the 29-year-old will be an early candidate for a bust in Canton, Ohio.
PHOENIX — New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski announced his retirement from the NFL on Sunday. His next stop will be Canton, Ohio, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
« There’s never been a more dangerous tight end than Gronk, an intimidating presence who’s been an outstanding receiver and blocker, » said John McClain, the longtime NFL columnist from the Houston Chronicle who has a Hall of Fame vote. « The Patriots won’t be as much fun to watch without him. I think he’s a lock to be voted into the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.”
ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio, who also has a Hall of Fame vote, agrees.
Rob Gronkowski announces retirement
• Patriots tight end ‘grateful for opportunity’ »
• Brady, Edelman, others share farewells »
• HOF voters: Rob’s worthy of first ballot »
• Why Gronk’s decision wasn’t an easy one »
• Gronk’s greatest catches, plus Brady’s fave »
• The majesty of the Gronk Spike| Video
• Patriots tight end ‘grateful for opportunity’ »
• Brady, Edelman, others share farewells »
• HOF voters: Rob’s worthy of first ballot »
• Why Gronk’s decision wasn’t an easy one »
• Gronk’s greatest catches, plus Brady’s fave »
• The majesty of the Gronk Spike| Video
« He has to be in the first-ballot conversation.
