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 NFL tight end, widely considered one of the greatest of all time. He played nine seasons with the New England Patriots and two with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Gronkowski is a four-time Super Bowl champion, a five-time Pro Bowl selection, and a four-time first-team All-Pro selection. He was also named to the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team and the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, solidifying his legacy as a dominant force in professional football.

Sections (5)

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

2009: Missed Junior Season Due to Back Surgery

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

2012: Forearm Injury and Pro Bowl Nomination

In 2012, Gronkowski broke his left forearm and earned a Pro Bowl nomination despite missing playing time. He was ranked 25th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2013.

February 2013: Forearm Infection Diagnosis

In February 2013, Gronkowski was diagnosed with an infection in his forearm and underwent an open procedure.

May 20, 2013: Fourth Surgery on Forearm

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

June 18, 2013: Back Surgery

On June 18, 2013, Gronkowski underwent back surgery.

December 8, 2013: Right Knee Injury

On December 8, 2013, during a game against the Cleveland Browns, Gronkowski suffered a right knee injury, tearing his ACL and MCL, which prematurely ended his 2013 season.

November 29, 2015: Right Knee Injury Against Broncos

On November 29, 2015, in the Patriots' first loss of the season against the Denver Broncos, 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, Gronkowski was officially placed on injured reserve after undergoing surgery to repair a herniated disk.

January 21, 2018: Concussion in AFC Championship Game

On January 21, 2018, Gronkowski suffered a concussion during the AFC Championship Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, being placed on concussion protocol.

2021: Injury plagued season

In 2021, Gronkowski suffered multiple rib fractures and a punctured lung during a Week 3 game versus the Los Angeles Rams, causing him to miss seven weeks. He finished the 2021 season with 55 receptions for 802 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns.