This Is What Could Bring Rob Gronkowski Back This Season: Report

Don't frame those Rob Gronkowski jerseys just yet. There are already major whispers about the affable (former) tight end returning to the New England Patriots at some point during the upcoming season.

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.

Florio also said coach Bill Belichick wouldn't be expected to stop Gronkowski from coming back, despite the uncertainty of the tight end's availability and the certainty of his distraction while he remains uncommitted.

"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."

Gronkowski retired in March, a month after winning his third Super Bowl with New England. The 30-year-old had a history serious injuries, but an early exit and lost seasons didn't keep him from becoming the most unstoppable tight end in NFL history.