Challenges in the Life of Rob Gronkowski in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Rob Gronkowski. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

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. He earned spots on the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team and the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, solidifying his legacy as a dominant and impactful player.

Sections (5)

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

2009: Missed junior season due to back surgery

In 2009, Gronkowski missed his junior season due to back surgery, which negatively impacted his draft stock.

2012: Broke forearm during game

In 2012, Gronkowski broke his left forearm and achieved his third season with at least 10 touchdown receptions.

May 20, 2013: Fourth Forearm Surgery

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

June 18, 2013: Back Surgery

On June 18, 2013, Rob Gronkowski underwent back surgery to address an undisclosed issue. This surgery was part of a series of medical challenges faced by Gronkowski during this period.

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. The injury, including a torn ACL and MCL, prematurely ended his 2013 season.

November 29, 2015: Right Knee Injury Against Broncos

On November 29, 2015, Rob Gronkowski suffered a right knee injury during a game against the Denver Broncos. He had to be carted off the field in the fourth quarter. The injury occurred during the Patriots' first loss of the season.

December 3, 2016: Placed on Injured Reserve

On December 3, 2016, Rob Gronkowski was officially placed on injured reserve after undergoing surgery to repair a herniated disk. The back injury suffered against the New York Jets ended his season prematurely.

January 21, 2018: Concussion in AFC Championship Game

On January 21, 2018, during the AFC Championship Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Rob Gronkowski suffered a concussion after a 21-yard reception. He was placed on concussion protocol and did not return to the game.

March 24, 2019: Retirement Announcement

On March 24, 2019, Rob Gronkowski announced his retirement from the NFL after nine seasons at the age of 29. He cited the physical and mental toll of injuries sustained throughout his career as a key factor in his decision.

2021: Injury-Plagued 2021 Season

In 2021, Gronkowski experienced a season fraught with health challenges, including multiple rib fractures and a punctured lung sustained during a Week 3 game against the Los Angeles Rams. This injury kept him sidelined for seven weeks, though he attempted an early return in Week 8. Despite the setbacks, he finished the 2021 season with 55 receptions for 802 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns, later contributing a touchdown in the Wild Card Round against the Philadelphia Eagles.