Rob Gronkowski is calling it a career. Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Five-time Pro Bowl TE Rob Gronkowski announces retirement after 11 seasons

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 6/21/22

Rob Gronkowski announced that he is retiring from playing in the NFL... again.

pic.twitter.com/QCMmVkihcs
— Rob Gronkowski (@RobGronkowski) June 21, 2022

Had a great conversation just now with Rob Gronkowski, who is excited to pursue other opportunities. End of an era for one of the best players ever. @ProFootballHOF
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) June 21, 2022

"Gronk" first retired from the league following the 2018 campaign — his ninth and final season with the New England Patriots — but after taking one year off decided to join longtime teammate Tom Brady in the NFC with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The duo helped lead the Bucs to a victory in Super Bowl LV against the Kansas City Chiefs and to the NFC divisional round this past season.

Many speculated that Gronkowski's playing status for 2022 would depend on Brady's decision on whether or not to return for his 23rd season. "TB12" initially called it quits at the beginning of February but then unretired approximately six weeks later.

Retirement scoreboard:

Rob Gronkowski 2

Tom Brady 1
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 21, 2022

Some remain skeptical of the tight end's decision, even after Tuesday's announcement.

Agent @DrewJRosenhaus, via text, on his client Rob Gronkowski's retirement: "This is just my opinion but I wouldn’t be surprised if Rob comes back during the season or next season." Adds that if @TomBrady reaches out in midseason, he could see where "Rob answers the call." https://t.co/eSKCp3EJcV
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) June 21, 2022

More must-reads: