History of Rob Gronkowski in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 19, 2025

Rob Gronkowski, nicknamed "Gronk", is a retired American football tight end renowned as one of the greatest ever. He played 11 NFL seasons, nine with the New England Patriots and two with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Gronkowski is a four-time Super Bowl champion, five-time Pro Bowl selection, and four-time first-team All-Pro. His accolades include selections to the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team and the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, solidifying his legacy as a dominant force in the sport.

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Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

May 20, 2013: Fourth Forearm Surgery

On May 20, 2013, Rob Gronkowski underwent a fourth surgery on his forearm to replace the hardware implanted in the second procedure and perform tissue biopsies. Doctors were encouraged that the infection had finally resolved.

June 18, 2013: Back Surgery

On June 18, 2013, Rob Gronkowski underwent back surgery to address an injury. He was later cleared to play in October.

October 20, 2013: Return to Play Against Jets

On October 20, 2013, Rob Gronkowski was cleared to play against the New York Jets after recovering from back surgery. He recorded three 100-yard receiving games in a six-game stretch after his return.

December 8, 2013: Right Knee Injury

On December 8, 2013, Rob Gronkowski suffered a right knee injury during a game against the Cleveland Browns after a hit from safety T. J. Ward, prematurely ending his 2013 season.

September 10, 2015: Three Touchdown Performance Against Steelers

On September 10, 2015, during the Patriots' home opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Rob Gronkowski caught five passes for 94 yards, scoring three of the Patriots' four touchdowns in their 28–21 victory.

November 29, 2015: Right Knee Injury Against Broncos

On November 29, 2015, in a game against the Denver Broncos, Rob Gronkowski had to be carted off the field after a right knee injury in the fourth quarter.

December 3, 2016: Placed on Injured Reserve

On December 3, 2016, Rob Gronkowski was officially placed on injured reserve after having surgery to repair a herniated disk. He was out for the season.

February 5, 2017: Patriots win Super Bowl LI

On February 5, 2017, Rob Gronkowski was on injured reserve when the Patriots won Super Bowl LI, defeating the Atlanta Falcons 34–28. This earned Gronkowski his second Super Bowl championship.

December 19, 2017: Named to Fifth Pro Bowl

On December 19, 2017, Rob Gronkowski was named to his fifth Pro Bowl, recognizing his performance during the 2017 NFL season.

January 21, 2018: Concussion in AFC Championship Game

On January 21, 2018, Rob Gronkowski suffered a concussion during the AFC Championship Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars and was placed in concussion protocol.

March 24, 2019: Retirement Announcement

On March 24, 2019, after nine seasons, Rob Gronkowski announced his retirement from the NFL at 29 years old, citing the toll that pain and injuries had taken on his mental health.

April 2020: Gronkowski Comments on Retirement

In April 2020, Rob Gronkowski reflected on his decision to take a year off from football, stating it was the best decision for his health and well-being.

April 21, 2020: Agreed to Come Out of Retirement

On April 21, 2020, Rob Gronkowski agreed to come out of retirement. The Patriots traded him to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, reuniting him with Tom Brady. The Buccaneers also received a seventh-round pick while the Patriots received a compensatory fourth round pick in the 2020 NFL draft.