The topic of NFL comebacks has become hot as former Los Angeles Charger Philip Rivers came out of retirement, and this means an NFL return of the tight end, Rob Gronkowski, could happen this season. Gronkowski revealed that he’s open to a return if it means getting some looks in practice to help the younger generation, while practicing only on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. It seems a little odd that Gronkowski selected those days, but he remains active throughout the league as a Fox Sports analyst and hosts several events while juggling his endorsements. However, the return of Rivers to join the Colts proves that anything can truly happen if given the right opportunity.
Report: Former Four-time Super Bowl Champion Rob Gronkowski Open to NFL Return
It shouldn’t be surprising if Gronkowski decides to dedicate at least one more season of football. Gronkowski retired in 2019, but came back the following back-to-back seasons to join Tom Brady in Tampa Bay to win their last Super Bowl with the Buccaneers in 2020. Now, there are a lot of scenarios for Gronkowski to return, but he wants a $1 million bonus, which probably won’t make sense if he doesn’t play full-time.
However, it’s not impossible, as the former second-rounder might be worth the risk. At age 36, he has more time on his hands if he wants to step away from his outside obligations for a year. The responsibilities won’t be going anywhere, so if Gronkowski decides to commit to one more run fully, these three teams could be interested in his return.
Possible Destinations
Indianapolis Colts
After bringing back Rivers, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Colts are open to the idea of signing Gronkowski. It’s been pure nostalgia for Indianapolis this week in the wake of Daniel Jones’ injury, but the team already has a promising rookie tight end, Tyler Warren. However, why not add more firepower in that offensive pass-attack to help them achieve their aspirations in the postseason? Gronkowski formed one of the greatest duos with the late Aaron Hernandez in New England several years ago, and could provide the same abilities again this upcoming postseason.
With Rivers expected to close out the rest of the 2025 campaign and make a run in the postseason, the Colts should consider Gronkowski. The future Hall of Famer won’t be explosive, but it would give Indianapolis a slight edge.
New England Patriots
Meanwhile, nobody should be surprised if the Patriots call up Gronkowski if he’s invested in a return. Despite having two adequate tight ends in Austin Hooper and Hunter Henry, the Patriots should look into the Gronk to set quarterback Drake Maye in the best possible spot. Maye is the latest quarterback in New England who is striving since the Tom Brady Era and would appreciate the efforts of Gronkowski to leave him a learning lesson for at least one more run.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Of course, another option for Gronkowski is Tampa Bay. The veteran did consider returning at one point with the Buccaneers, but plans shifted since then. The Buccaneers are tied with the Carolina Panthers in their division and could use some fiery offensive power like Gronkowski to help quarterback Baker Mayfield. After losing consecutive games, the season isn’t over for Tampa Bay, but they’re making it harder on themselves. With Cade Otton expected to become a free agent in March, the Buccaneers could bring back Gronkowski for another year next season as a temporary replacement.
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