Rob Gronkowski's second retirement: When did Gronk retire?

Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski declared his intention to retire in a Twitter post in June. Gronkowski did not give a reason for retiring. Instead, he stated that he was "going back to chilling out" after coming out of retirement to help the Buccaneers win a Super Bowl.

He left no other details in his message, simply stating that his retirement would involve "sailing the seas."

Additionally, he confirmed to TMZ Sports that he would be either retiring prior to the 2022 season or joining the Buccaneers again, putting an end to suggestions that he would consider playing alongside a quarterback other than Tom Brady.

Rob Gronkowski has an unusual legacy

Very few match the reputation Gronkowski left behind when he finished his career. He received five Pro Bowl selections and four Super Bowls. Among tight ends, he has the most touchdown receptions in a single season. His 92 touchdown receptions ranked him third among TEs in league history, and his 9,286 receiving yards ranked him fifth overall.

He is one of Tom Brady's good friends

Only one quarterback and receiver combination in the NFL has combined for more touchdowns than Gronk and Brady: Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison.

Three years, a team move and a Super Bowl victory prior, Rob Gronkowski's first retirement came after a dismal campaign in which he spoke publicly about the blows he had endured and how they had damaged his mood.

"I'm proud of all that we've accomplished together, and even more eager for all you have ahead of you," Tom Brady wrote in an Instagram message to his buddy and former running partner.

Thankfully, Gronkowski decided to do it again, this time in Tampa, after taking a year-long break. He left for the second time in June, appearing to be less worn out and happier. So much so that shortly after making his declaration, Gronkowski's representative, Drew Rosenhaus, said he wouldn't be shocked if Brady called Gronkowski and asked him to come back by midseason.

Rob Gronkowski's first retirement

After the 2018 season, Gronk announced his retirement and missed the 2019 season. He returned after that year for a two-year stint in Tampa Bay, alongside Tom Brady.

About a month after longtime friend Brady left the New England Patriots for the Buccaneers, Gronkowski decided to return from retirement. In exchange for a fourth-round pick as compensation, the Patriots moved Rob Gronkowski to Tampa Bay in April 2020 because they were still holding Gronkowski's rights.

In his statement on Instagram, Gronkowski stated that he would not return to the field unless he was "feeling it, feeling healthy, and feeling ready to play. I would do it all over again, but taking a year off was undoubtedly the best choice I ever made, both for my profession and my health and well-being."