Oct 26, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) reacts after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the Chicago Bears at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
It’s safe to say one thing when talking about the New England Patriots and their star tight end. Rob Gronkowski is back. And this time around, he might even be better than before. With a slew of injuries that have plagued him in the past few seasons (knock on wood somewhere), Rob Gronkowski is officially back, and perhaps, even better. As he showed to the world yesterday in a show-stopping performance versus a very defeated Chicago Bears, Gronk amassed 3 TDs and 149 receiving yards by the end of the game. And by doing so, he proved that he is the ultimate tight end in the league. But how can this be, some might wonder? Does he have frat boy meathead super powers? Did he sell his soul to the devil after that ACL tear late last year? No, that can’t be it. The truth? Gronk is just that good… if and when he’s healthy.
GMEN HQ
At the beginning of the season, fans and NFL scrutinizers were angry as hell after the Tim Wright/Logan Mankins trade heard round the world. Disgruntled fans were left wondering, “what the (expletive)??” and probably a few other choice words to express their frustrations. But, Bill Belichick knew exactly what he was doing. By going back to the deadly two tight end option (sorry Hoomanawanui) this relieved pressure off of Gronkowski who was usually double, and some times triple, teamed by opposing teams’ defense. Rest assured, there is a method to the Belichick madness. Tim Wright has prospered nicely in the Patriots system, Brady’s once conundrum of offense weapons is steadily gaining speed, and everyone’s favorite meathead was given less of a workload so that he could come back strong just like he did yesterday. Pats fans and Gronk fantasy football owners alike rejoiced with each Gronk Spike that came their way on Sunday afternoon, points racking with each unstoppable crossing of the pylon. Not to mention Tom Brady, who I hadn’t seen that smily in God knows how long. Well, I can think of one time.
The New England Patriots might be the equivalent of the Yankees or the Lakers in a football comparison, but aside from this, you can’t hate on Rob Gronkowski. He’s like an overgrown teenager. He’s enjoyable to be around, plays the game as hard as he can, loyal to his team, and a great humanitarian in his abundance of efforts in brightening the lives of sick children. The guy even shaved his head over the summer to show his support for kids with cancer. He’s like the Golden Retriever of football, you simply can’t hate the guy, even if he is the guy scoring mad points against your favorite team. Oh, what I wouldn’t give to see another one of his “little nutcracker dude” celebration dances again. Perhaps London will come calling for the Patriots in the 2015 season and I’ll get my wish, until then: