Home

NFL

“Does Not Matter”: Patriots Legend Rob Gronkowski Slaps Disappointed Will Levis With a Reality Check

Published 05/20/2023, 8:41 AM EDT

Follow Us

In any sporting league, veterans are the ones who open gates and train the coming generation to take the baton forward. Rob Gronkowski is one such veteran, and any youngster in the league might feel lucky to be advised by him. As a highly-skilled and charismatic player with a larger-than-life personality, he has a separate fan base. With nine impressive seasons as a tight end for the New England Patriots and two more with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Gronkowski established himself as one of the most talented and beloved players.

With 80 career touchdowns (79 receiving and one rushing) after playing nine seasons, Gronkowski holds the record for the most touchdowns in Patriots franchise history. But his fans know that his impact extends far beyond the football field. Gronk recently appeared in an interview with Kay Adams on the latest episode of ‘Up & Adams‘ on FanDuel TV! He shared insights from his NFL drafting memories. Besides that, he offered valuable advice to young quarterbacks like Will Levis of the Tennessee Titans.

Gronk’s ethics notes for young players

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Gronk made an exclusive appearance on ‘Kay Adam’s Show’ on Wednesday. He was asked to give a piece of advice to young players like Will Levis, Michael Mayer, or Brian Branch on their NFL drafting disappointments. Gronk said that he noticed they were hoping to be in the first round but got drafted in the second round. But, he clarified, “The draft does not matter. It’s just all about the opportunities.”

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest NFL stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Gronkowski reflected on his own experience with the NFL draft in 2010. He admitted felt disappointed when he wasn’t selected in the first round. But, when he was picked in the second round, his joy knew no bounds. Drawing on this experience, he offered advice to young players who might feel discouraged during the draft.

“Entire Thing Was Ridiculous”: Fans Want None of Rob Gronkowski’s Attempt to Save Face After 4x Super Bowl Champion’s Most Embarrassing Fail

He emphasized that it doesn’t matter at which point they’re selected, as long as they use their opportunities to prove themselves and shine. As he put it, “You get the same exact opportunity to succeed in the NFL.” He said that a player’s legacy isn’t determined by where they’re drafted. Their legacy lies in their performance on the field and their dedication to the game.

Late-round and undrafted NFL players created history in the sports world

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The opportunity to seize a great future is rare, but those who can do so can create history. Kurt Warner is one of those undrafted players who later got his name inked in ‘best-undrafted player of all time’. He was benched three times in his career as a quarterback. He won two NFL MVP awards (1999, 2001) and one Super Bowl title (2000) with the St. Louis Rams (now the Los Angeles Rams) in his NFL career.

USA Today via Reuters

When it comes to late-round picks, it’s hard to forget the story of Tom Brady, who was selected at No 199 in the second round of the 2000 NFL draft. Despite being initially listed as the fourth-string quarterback for the Patriots, he gradually worked his way up the depth chart. He became one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. With 649 touchdown passes and a record-breaking 89,214 passing yards, Brady has achieved seven Super Bowl wins, and the rest is history. Brady was Gronk’s teammate as well and they both share a great friendship.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Watch this story: Tom Brady’s Former Teammate Cum Best-Friend Rob Gronkowski Embraces Future Husband Duties in Post-Retirement Life

These success stories and Gonk’s advice serve as a reminder that obstacles can be turned into opportunities. The players who are overlooked in the draft or signed as undrafted free agents can still make an impact. Other examples include Bart Starr, Roger Staubach, and Chris Harris, who all proved themselves in the NFL with their hard work and abilities.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Bhwya Sriya

1,479Articles

One take at a time

Bhwya Sriya is an NFL Writer at EssentiallySports. With a Master's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from an esteemed university, Bhwya tries to amalgamate her love for sports with her creativity. Her interest in sports arose when Bhwya represented her district on a race track in school.
Show More>

Edited by:

Hitesh Nigam