Rob Gronkowski is probably the most discussed New England Patriots player this offseason. The story is well-known by now: The NFL's best tight end did not commit to returning for another year immediately after the Super Bowl in early February and what followed were months of speculation and rumors about his future; particularly since Gronkowski did not attend any of the Patriots' offseason workouts so far.
This will all change on Tuesday, however, as New England will open its mandatory minicamp that day — and Gronkowski will be in attendance as he confirmed during a charity event at Gillette Stadium earlier today: “We've got mandatory minicamp this week, so I'll be there this week,” the 29-year old told reporters (via WBZ's Dan Roche). “I'll be full go. I'm looking forward to it; can't wait to get back to work. I'm excited.”
Gronkowski, who addressed any retirement speculations in late April, will now take the next step in getting ready for the 2018 season — one he might play under a new contract and once again as the Patriots' premier offensive weapon. And he will not be the only player to return to the field this week: Quarterback Tom Brady, who also sat out the voluntary portion of offseason workouts, is also expected to join his teammates at practice.
The Patriots' offseason drama is finally coming to an end, it seems.