Rob Gronkowski is a professional tight end. Gronkowski played college football at the University of Arizona, winning several awards, including being named a Sporting News and Rivals.com Freshman All-American. Despite only playing two collegiate seasons, his 18.8 yards per reception average and 1,197 receiving yards were a team record for his position.
The Patriots drafted Gronkowski in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft with the 42nd pick, after missing his junior year due to back surgery. Gronkowski has set several NFL records, including being the first player of his position to lead the league in receiving touchdowns. As of 2021, he also has the most career postseason receiving yards by a tight end – the only tight end in NFL history to reach 1,000 or more yards. He previously played nine seasons for the New England Patriots. He is a three-time Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI, LIII), a five-time Pro Bowl selection, and a four-time First Team All-Pro selection, and was selected in the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team and NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team. With his numerous accomplishments and accolades, he is regarded by many sports analysts, writers, and peers to be the greatest tight end in NFL history.
Gronkowski is one of football's most popular players, with a larger-than-life personality on and off the field. As of 2021, Gronk plays for the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers.