New England Patriots: 5 Early bold predictions for the 2018 season

2. Rob Gronkowski opts for retirement mid-season

Rob Gronkowski has never been shy about straying from the status quo. That won’t change in 2018, when he decides he’s had enough and calls it a career midway though the season.

There’s already been significant speculation about his playing days nearing an end. We heard all about it earlier this offseason. It wasn’t until Gronk posted this message on Instagram stating his intention to return that Patriots fans could come down off the ledge. Even then, the fact that he had to meet with Belichick proves retirement was a legitimate option.

After playing his way through a handful of games and watching Brady’s decline (and maybe taking a few more licks), Gronkowski decides to hang up his cleats. He’s already got a number of off-field opportunities that should keep the money rolling in, so he heads for retirement.

It’s a huge blow to the New England passing game, obviously. It doesn’t make life any easier for Brady, but opens the door for Patterson to earn that prominent role in the passing game. You can try to spin it in a positive manner, but the fact remains that the loss of Gronk would be a huge crutch for the New England offense.

Patriots fans will hate this. Brady will hate this. All of Boston will hate this. At least we know the stream of viral videos will be as fruitful as ever with Gronkowski stepping away from the gridiron. Because who doesn’t want more Gronk-minigun videos in their life?