As Rob Gronkowski is inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame and Tom Brady prepares to call his first game at Gillette Stadium this weekend, the legendary quarterback-receiver duo’s legacy is once again at the forefront of the NFL conversation. Brady, who will be in the broadcast booth for Sunday’s matchup against the Green Bay Packers, was asked if Gronkowski will eventually get a statue outside of Gillette Stadium, to which he responded, I actually think we need to crowdsource beer cans this weekend and the fans will build the statue themselves. I’ll come out, I’ll get it in on the action and that would be a true testament to the Gronk mentality. It would warm my heart.
Gronkowski’s Impact on and off the Field
Gronkowski became one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history during his nine seasons in New England, winning three Super Bowls and being named a Pro Bowler five times. His 105 touchdowns (including playoffs) thrown by Brady are the second-most by any quarterback-receiver duo in NFL history. This weekend’s events, Gronkowski’s Hall of Fame induction and Brady’s broadcast return, highlight their significant contributions to the Patriots’ dynasty run.
Top 5 Brady-to-Gronkowski Plays at Gillette Stadium
When discussing the most memorable connections between the two, several standout plays at Gillette Stadium come to mind.
- In Week 1 of the 2015 season, Brady threw a lob to Gronkowski in the back of the end zone during a goal-line formation. Gronkowski used his size to secure the pass while keeping his feet inbounds for a touchdown. He dominated the Pittsburgh Steelers in that game, totaling five receptions for 94 yards and three touchdowns.
- Against the Buffalo Bills, Gronkowski lined up wide and ran a fade route along the sideline. Brady placed the ball perfectly for Gronkowski to make a difficult one-handed back shoulder grab for a 17-yard touchdown, helping the Patriots secure a 37-16 win.
- In a game against the Chicago Bears, Gronkowski showcased his athleticism after catching a low pass over the middle. He broke a tackle and dragged another defender five yards into the end zone for a 47-yard touchdown. He finished that game with nine receptions for 149 yards and three touchdowns in a 51-23 victory.
Looking Ahead to This Weekend
This weekend’s events in Foxborough will celebrate the legacy of Brady and Gronkowski. Brady, now a Fox Sports color commentator, will be calling the Patriots-Packers game from the booth for the first time since joining the network. The Patriots, led by quarterback Drake Maye, are set to host the Packers in a primetime matchup, providing another stage for the team’s history to be remembered.
Brady returns pic.twitter.com/uwdmZN3Sli
