Fantasy Football 2017: Time To Move On From Rob Gronkowski

Oct 23, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) celebrates a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Heinz Field. The Patriots won the game, 27-16. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 23, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) celebrates a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Heinz Field. The Patriots won the game, 27-16. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Don’t let your love for him cloud your judgment; it’s time to move on from Rob Gronkowski in fantasy football in 2017.

It was just a few years ago that New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski was considered the best of the best at his position. Not only a force to reckon with on the field, but in fantasy football as well, he was truly unstoppable. Thinking back to 2014, Gronkowski’s stats were truly amazing.

That year, Gronkowski totaled 1,124 receiving yards on 82 receptions and 12 footballs were Gronk-spiked hard into the end zone. That year, the Patriots won a Super Bowl and, well, Gronkowski was a big part of that due to everything he brought to the table. Of course, it helps to have Tom Brady under center. But regardless, Gronkowski was a huge name in fantasy football.

Rightfully so after that huge season, Gronkowski was a popular fantasy option, even last season despite looking like nothing near the powerhouse he was in 2014. Injuries have unfortunately defined Gronkowski and it’s easy to see why a lot of fantasy owners will have problems letting him pass by when draft time comes.

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However, Gronkowski is a player on the decline and not even playing with Brady will get him back to his once dominant ways. He’s had a plethora of surgeries so far in his NFL career and, considering that several have been on his back, that doesn’t bode well for his fantasy football outlook come next season and beyond.

Gronkowski, always in a great and competitive spirit, offered his plans for next season coming off the second Super Bowl championship of his career. In an article written from ESPN.com news services, here’s what he had to say:

"“I’m not really sure. I still love playing the game, and as of right now, I want to play as long as I can possibly play. My mindset is to keep on going.”"

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Overall, Gronkowski isn’t worth drafting this upcoming fantasy season. It’s time to say goodbye and move on. He’ll always be remembered for what he did in the past, but, unfortunately, other viable tight end options are leaps and bounds better than anything Gronkowski will do this upcoming fantasy year.