The nearly unbeatable Rob Gronkowski — Gronk —is arguably the most dominant NFL player in recent history. The simplest numbers or awards do not do justice to his impact on the game, not just on the field of play but off it, as he is truly a representative of the best of the sport. We break down the life and career of this legendary tight end, explaining why he was so terrifying to the guys who tried to cover him.
Who is Rob Gronkowski?
Rob Gronkowski was born May 14, 1989, in Amherst, New York. Gronk went on to play college football at the University of Arizona, where he was considered one of the tight end prospects for the 2010 NFL Draft. Gronk's huge frame, astonishing hands, and unstoppable willpower quickly made him a nearly indestructible force on the field.
Career and Success
He also has a hall-of-fame-caliber career in the NFL. He had a decorated career with the New England Patriots and later the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and earned several accolades including three Super Bowl rings. His game began to dominate on every possible level, making him a real nightmare for opponents and brought him the respect of all his peers, coaches, and fans. Especially fantasy football managers.
The Statistics
Gronkowski's dominance is followed by a ridiculous set of numbers. He finished his career with over 7,800 receiving yards and 86 touchdowns whilst making several Pro Bowls and All-Pro teams. One of the most dynamic offensive weapons to ever grace the gridiron, his ability to shed tacklers like water off a duck made him a game-changing player.
Quotes from Opponents
However, if you want to get a sense of why opponents were afraid of Gronk, look no further than those who practiced against him, and lined up with him on the field. Showing him plenty of love, both opponents and former teammates have issued high praise of Gronkowski and the impact he had on the sport:
J.J. Watt, Houston Texans DE: "Gronk is a matchup nightmare. He is truly a freak of size, speed, and athleticism. He's someone you always have to have in your mind on every play."
Richard Sherman, CB, San Francisco 49ers: "Playing against Gronk is like trying to tackle a freight train with a bicycle. He's a difference-maker, period."
Luke Kuechly, LB Carolina Panthers: "Gronk's physicality and football IQ make him a nightmare to defend. You've got to be your best every second he's on the field."
Gronk
The universal feeling amongst defenders comes across loud and clear in those quotes: Rob Gronkowski was such a difference-maker that he would quite literally change the course of a game all by himself.
So to sum up, no player has had a bigger effect on the league than Rob Gronkowski, physically and skillfully. He was truly one of a kind, and on the field, he was a force of nature like no other. By instilling fear into opponents and still commanding ample respect from your peers, that is as iconic as it gets.
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