Rob Gronkowski, one of the top tight ends in NFL history, has had an illustrious career, winning four Super Bowls and earning numerous Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. After playing nine seasons with the New England Patriots, he took a year off and returned to play two more seasons alongside Tom Brady with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

While the idea of a 12th season for Gronkowski may seem unlikely, he recently mentioned a coach who could potentially lure him out of retirement for a second comeback – Brian Daboll of the New York Giants. Daboll, formerly the offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, joined the Giants and led them to a surprising playoff appearance and their first postseason victory since their Super Bowl win against Gronkowski’s Patriots in 2012. 

Gronkowski expressed interest in Daboll’s coaching style and the possibility of playing in a two-tight-end strategy, similar to his successful partnership with another tight end during his playing days. He believes that having two talented tight ends on the field simultaneously can make an offense nearly unstoppable, providing versatility in both running and passing plays.

Despite his admiration for Daboll’s coaching and the allure of returning to the field, Gronkowski seems content with his retirement. He playfully acknowledges his fondness for imagining he can still play but acknowledges that his playing days are behind him.

Throughout his career, Gronkowski accumulated impressive statistics, including 621 receptions for 9,286 yards and 92 touchdowns. He led the league in touchdowns during his first All-Pro season in 2011 and achieved four 1,000-yard seasons, with the potential for more if not for injuries in other years.