Finally, any rumor of a Rob Gronkowski return to the New England Patriots in 2019 seems ruled out. Moreover, Gronkowski is going down a new path that seems to fit his colorful personality. Without question – during his nine season career and 79 touchdown spikes – fans enjoyed his antics.
Now, he’s going to be on FOX NFL Sunday every week. This huge report comes from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. He released a tweet on Tuesday afternoon stating the following.
Former #Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski is coming to a TV near you: Sources tell me and @MikeGarafolo that Gronk has been hired by FOX to appear as a regular analyst for FOX NFL Sunday. A dynamic role for future Hall of Famer.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 8, 2019
Really, we should have all seen this coming. Once an NFL player wraps up a successful career on a semi-high note, the television networks look to capitalize by striking network gold.
Indeed, there have been exceptions to the rule where a personality was hired and it just didn’t work out. For example, Jason Witten was given a year in the booth on Monday Night Football only to decide it wasn’t for him and return to the gridiron with the Dallas Cowboys.
However, the mood isn’t quite as serious on FOX NFL Sunday. Moreover, Gronk should fit right in on a team that keeps it light-hearted and fun before the action starts every Sunday.
Gronkowski had the following to say in a statement, confirming his next move:
“I’m extremely excited to be joining FOX Sports,” Gronkowski said in a statement. “For the past 25 years, they’ve offered viewers top-notch NFL programming from the field to the booth to the studio. Their deep talent roster is unmatched, which was important for me as I embark on this new chapter in my life because I’ll be able to learn from the best in the business.”
Honestly, I like Gronkowski. Not only was he a great player, but he’s a likable enough guy; even if he was a lifetime Patriot.
While I wish FOX NFL Sunday could be Terry Bradshaw, Jimmy Johnson, and Howie Long for the rest of my life; it’s simply not realistic. My kids will grow up watching Gronkowski and a whole new cast of characters that fit with the current day in age.
