Patriots Build Rob Gronkowski Shrine For Training Camp

FOXBOROUGH, MA — Rob Gronkowski has only been retired for four months, but the New England Patriots have already began to worship its former star tight end. The team set up a shrine honoring Gronkowski at training camp Friday behind the fields, according to Ben Volin from the Boston Globe.

The shrine included four of Gronkowski's old jerseys, along with various footballs, photos, and other memorabilia. One of the footballs on display was from a touchdown reception Gronkowski caught during a 2016 divisional playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs. The touchdown gave Gronkowski, his eighth post season touchdown, which broke an NFL record for tight ends.

Gronkowski retired in March, a month after winning his third Super Bowl with New England. The 30-year-old had a history of serious injuries, but an early exit and lost seasons didn't keep him from becoming the most unstoppable tight end in NFL history. His shrine included a sign highlighting some of his Hall of Fame level statistics, including being the fastest tight end to ever reach 7,500 receiving yards, most consecutive seasons with 10 or more touchdowns, and third in touchdown receptions all time among tight ends.

Although Gronkowski hasn't given any indication he'll return to the Patriots, there are already major whispers he could decide to come out of retirement. A source close to Gronkowski told Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio the chances of the fan favorite's return this season are 40 percent. And there's one thing that could up those odds significantly: a plea from his old pal Tom Brady.

"For now, Gronk isn't thinking about football," Florio said. "He's enjoying his life, he doesn't need the money, and he's having a blast. The question becomes whether Gronkowski misses his teammates and/or the games after August becomes September."