After Super Bowl LIII, Patriots fans were riding high (no, not like Josh Gordon.) With Brady not retiring and the Patriots defense coming to play in a big game for what felt like the first time in a decade, who can blame them? The fans came back to Earth after Gronk announced his semi-surprising retirement after weeks of speculation. This may change, however, with the Rob Gronkowski announcement expected for Tuesday. Ahead of this, Patriots fans are optimistic he will be announcing his return to the field, which would be good news as the Patriots offense looks horrendous this year. But is it likely, or are there more realistic possibilities?
1. Joining the WWE
Gronk is two things: an entertainer and a freak of nature. Where can he combine these two talents? The WWE of course! Gronk has a history with the WWE, and he would fit right in. His 6’6 frame would not be quite as monstrous in the ring, but it would still be big enough to get results. In my mind, this is the most likely scenario, as this would be something Gronk has wanted to do for a while.
2. Joins the XFL
No, not to play, although that would be awesome. No, I expect the Rob Gronkowski announcement to be joining the XFL in the booth or on the field, similar to Pat McAfee. With his (limited) experience on Fox covering the NFL, and his boisterous personality, this is a match made in heaven. It would also give him the ability to be an entertainer without the physical toll being in the ring would cause while still being a part of WWE inc.
3. A Business Partnership with TB12 Sports
Sunday, Gronk shared this video with the caption “Do you think this thing still works.” This is partially why Pats fans are freaking out. I doubt it is indicating a return to the field, but rather doing something with Tom Brady’s company. Gronk has loved teasing Patriots fans about a potential return, and this is no different. Rob Gronkowski’s announcement could in fact be nothing more than a business venture, potentially making TB12 CBD products.
4. An Engagement to Camille Kostek
Gronk and Kostek have been linked since the summer of 2015, appearing in each other’s instagram posts. Could the most eligible bachelor in NFL history finally be tied down? Probably not, but at one point it seemed he would remain single and party until he was well into his 40s. If Camille got him to give up that lifestyle, is there a possibility they could tie the knot?
5. Rob Gronkowski has Solved Cold Fusion
Essentially, cold fusion is a nuclear reaction that occurs at room temperature. This would greatly reduce the potential for a meltdown. Announcing he barely spent his NFL earnings, Gronk has a large pile of cash. Could the Rob Gronkowski announcement be he used that money to better mankind, and that’s the real reason he retired? Probably not, but still more likely than our final entry.
6. Rob Gronkowski Returns to the Patriots
This is why Gronk returning is so unlikely. He is one of the happiest people I’ve ever seen in life, and he felt football was taking that away from him. Yes, seeing the Patriots take the field, he might have the urge to go back out there. But this video was taken in August, and I doubt he would forget that feeling anytime soon. I would love to see 87 back out there running around. But if he does not have a love for the game and, more importantly, life, then I am perfectly okay with Gronk staying at home.