Report: Rob Gronkowski Returns To Football As A FOX Sport Analyst

Rob Gronkowski entered the world of football. Again. However, he won’t be an active player. The retired tight end will become a Fox Sports analyst. The network hired Gronk as the latest member of the team that includes Michal Strahan, Howie Long and Terry Bradshaw.

“I’m extremely excited to be joining FOX Sports,” Gronkowski said in a statement, according to Pro Football Talk’s Josh Alper. “For the past 25 years, they’ve offered viewers top-notch NFL programming from the field to the booth to the studio. Their deep talent roster is unmatched, which was important for me as I embark on this new chapter in my life because I’ll be able to learn from the best in the business.”

It’s the perfect timing. The network made the announcement, and Gronk will make his debut Thursday night before the primetime match between the New England Patriots and the New York Giants.

If you hope to see Gronk back on the field, it’s time to give up on that idea. But, Jay Cutler joined the Miami Dolphins for another season right after signing a deal with Fox Sports as a commentator.

We’re convinced that Gronk won’t join Tom Brady and catch passes from him in near future.

“We’re thrilled Rob chose Fox Sports for the next phase of his football life,” Brad Zager, executive producer and executive vice president, head of production and operations for Fox Sports, said in a statement. “He is one of the most popular players to ever play the game and also one of the best tight ends in NFL history. His passion for the game and larger-than-life personality make him a perfect fit for Fox Sports.”

Gronk made a name in the NFL as the best tight end in football during his time with the Patriots. In nine seasons, the 30-year-old caught 521 passes for 7,861 yards and 79 touchdowns. He was a five-time Pro Bowler, four-time first-team All-Pro and three-time champion. 

Gronk’s 17 touchdown receptions in 2011 is the most in history by a tight end in a single season, and tied for fifth most overall. 

Will he ever return as a Patriot?