Gronkowski in Super Bowl LII. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
BOSTON (WBZ-AM) -- Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski skipped the Patriots' voluntary workouts this offseason, but both returned for mandatory mini-camp yesterday and, while the Q-B was silent, his tight end dished on the offseason.
Gronkowski said he missed earlier OTAs because he felt it best to train on his own and, yes, he did consider retirement.
"I mean, I was just seeing where I was at at first," he said. "Obviously after long hauling seasons, it definitely was in the mind, but I had to do what I had to do, where I felt good enough, get my body prepared, get my body right again, see where my body was at, see where my mind was at, and I'm glad to be back out here. I feel like I definitely made the right decision coming out."
The four-time All-Pro said he's on good terms with coach Bill Belichick, but definitely has finances on his mind.
Asked if he is re-doing contract, he said, "I don't know, trying to"--and added, "who wouldn't" want to get something done before the season starts?
Gronkowski's 29, with two years and $17 million left on his deal. He earned $10.2 million last season--most in the NFL at his position. But, his total cash value for 2018 sits at $8.9 million, and that's fifth among tight ends, behind Jimmy Graham, Greg Olsen, Trey Burton, and Zach Ertz.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Adam Kaufman reports