In New England, Rob Gronkowski was more than a tight end. He was the big‑play weapon that turned Super Bowls into routine. After leaving the New England Patriots in 2020, he is now returning for one final act.

Ahead of a bit Patriots vs Buccaneers clash, involving both his two former teams, Rob Gronkowski announced on FOX NFL Sunday (November 9, 2025) that he will sign a one-day contract on November 12, 2025, at 12:15 PM EST to officially retire as a Patriot. Since then, various congratulations have already poured in across the NFL community.

“I am signing a one-day contract with the Patriots this week coming up to retire as a Patriot and be a Patriot for life, just like all of you out here,” Gronkowski stated.

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This happened during his appearance on a broadcast, gesturing to a large group of military veterans in attendance. The official New England Patriots account on X even tweeted this news:

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“The greatest tight end in @NFL history is retiring a Patriot!” the announcement stated.

Gronkowski’s decision to retire as a Patriot caps an 11-season, Hall of Fame-caliber career. Drafted in the second round (42nd overall) in 2010, he spent nine seasons in New England, recording 521 receptions for 7,861 yards and 79 touchdowns.

Over time, he cemented his place as the franchise’s all-time leader among tight ends in receiving scores. His impact extended to the postseason, with six touchdown receptions for the Patriots contributing to his 15 career playoff touchdowns.

An early well-documented example of a one-day contract took place on August 24, 2006, when Hall of Fame wide receiver Jerry Rice signed such a contract with the San Francisco 49ers. Gronkowski will be the second former Patriot to sign a one-day contract this season. Defensive lineman Lawrence Guy signed a one-day contract with the Patriots a few weeks ago, also choosing to retire as a member of the team he most associated with during his career.

Fans across the world are already celebrating the news, sending an outpouring of tributes and well-wishes to Gronkowski.

Fans celebrate Rob Gronkowski’s one-day Patriots contract

For the Patriots, this announcement has garnered widespread excitement and heartfelt congratulations. It marks a significant and emotional moment for one of the franchise’s most beloved players.

The outpouring of support reflects not only admiration for his on-field dominance but also appreciation for his enduring connection to the franchise.

A fan wrote, “Congrats @RobGronkowski, well deserved!”

This was a simple and meaningful acknowledgement of a memorable career. Many fans expressed joy at seeing Gronkowski return to the organization where it all started for this meaningful moment.

“It’s great to see him back with the Patriots for this special moment,” one supporter noted. Another added, “Excellent!!! Congrats to Gronk!”

The timing coincides perfectly with the Patriots’ resurgence to an impressive 8-2 record and first-place position in the AFC East, adding to the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the announcement.

Gronkowski’s legacy was evident in comments like “Gronk forever, what a legend” and “Forever #Thanks to @RobGronkowski,” highlighting his impact in the football world.

Fans also acknowledged Gronkowski’s status among the NFL’s all-time elite.

Comments such as “Not only best TE one of the best players ever,” and “Greatest tight end of all time and it isn’t close” demonstrated widespread recognition for the legend.

The deep ties Gronkowski has to Foxborough, Massachusetts, only show the bond between player and community, making his one-day retirement as a Patriot a moment fans will cherish