Gronkowski confirms he'll play upcoming season
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski is committed to playing the 2018 NFL season, he announced Tuesday on social media.
The announcement ends speculation that Gronkowski, 28, could retire.
"I met with coach today and informed him I will be back for the 2018 season with the Pats," Gronkowski wrote on Instagram. "I have been working out, staying in shape and feel great. Looking forward to another championship run."
Gronkowski, who hasn't played a full season since 2011, caught 69 passes for 1,084 yards and eight touchdowns last fall to earn All-Pro honors. He added 16 catches and three touchdowns in three postseason games.
Gronkowski, who has undergone three back surgeries as well as procedures on his knee and forearm, was absent for the start of New England's offseason program last week amid speculation he was unhappy with the Patriots organization over training and recuperation programs.
The Patriots' 2010 second-round draft out of the University of Arizona, Gronkowski is a five-time Pro Bowl performer and a four-time All-Pro. In 102 career games, he has 474 receptions for 7,479 yards and 76 touchdowns. Last season marked the fourth time he topped 1,000 receiving yards.
--Field Level Media