Gronkowski says Patriots missed Super Bowl due to easy schedule
The former tight end argues that New England's current struggles stem from a tougher slate of opponents and offensive injuries, while also calling for stricter penalties on referees.
By Matthew Qureshi ·
Rob Gronkowski told OutKick that the New England Patriots should not be viewed as serious Super Bowl contenders this year. The former tight end argued that the team's run to the championship game last season was aided by a weak schedule. He believes the Patriots will make the playoffs but lack the current strength to win it all.
The Patriots are 4-3 entering Week 8 following a 30-24 loss to the Chicago Bears. Gronkowski noted that the team is facing tougher defenses than it did a year ago. He pointed to injuries across the offensive line as a key factor in their recent decline. He added that wideout AJ Brown needs to be fully healthy for the offense to function at a high level.
Gronkowski also criticized the league's officiating. He called for the NFL to punish referees in the same way it punishes players and coaches. He cited questionable calls on pass interference and roughing the passer. He said that incorrect flags can change the outcome of games and that the current standard is not high enough.
The former Patriot's comments followed a public dispute by Tom Brady and FOX analyst Dean Blandino. They challenged several decisions during the Detroit Lions' 20-17 win over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. Gronkowski agreed that officials need to improve before the postseason. He emphasized that fairness is what fans want to see.
In the same interview, Gronkowski discussed his post-career recovery routine. He uses hot yoga, saunas, and float tanks to manage the physical toll of football. He also promoted a partnership with DNA Vibe, a company that makes a wearable device called the Jazz Band. The device uses red light, infrared light, and magnetic pulses. He said the product helps him manage aches and pains.
The former tight end also compared Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy to Tom Brady. He said both players had to overcome adversity to reach their current status. McCarthy was traded to the New York Giants on Sept. 28 for a 2027 fifth-round pick. He completed 20 of 28 passes for 252 yards in his first start for New York. The Giants won that game 27-21 in overtime against the Houston Texans.
Gronkowski believes McCarthy has what it takes to lead the Giants to the playoffs. He noted that McCarthy showed he was ready when the opportunity arose. The former tight end also defended the NFL's coverage of celebrity relationships, specifically that of Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. He said the attention has boosted viewership and helped the league grow its fan base.
