Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick issued the following statement on Rob Gronkowski announcing his retirement.
"It was a pleasure and a privilege to coach Rob Gronkowski the past nine years. From his rookie year until his final season and through countless times in between, Rob was a major reason why we won games and championships. His elite combination of size, skill, intelligence, toughness and ability to perform in pressure situations set him apart."
"Rob's impact on our team and organization was felt in many ways. In the ultimate team sport, Rob was a great, great teammate. His production spoke for itself, but his daily attitude, unmistakably positive energy wherever he went and toward whoever he touched will never be forgotten."
"Rob will leave an indelible mark on the Patriots organization and the game as among the best, most complete players at his position to ever play."
- Bill Belichick
