Overview
- The 36-year-old signed the ceremonial contract at 12:15 p.m. Wednesday at Gillette Stadium alongside owner Robert Kraft.
- Kraft said a formal retirement tied to Patriots Hall of Fame timing had been planned but was moved up to fulfill Hurley’s wish.
- A light moment at the event saw Kraft float a two-day deal for the Jets game, with Gronkowski quipping, “What’s the signing bonus?”
- Gronkowski will serve as Keeper of the Light and address fans at halftime of Thursday night’s Patriots-Jets game.
- He totaled 621 receptions, 9,286 yards and 92 touchdowns with four Super Bowl titles, works as a Fox analyst, and becomes Hall-eligible in 2026 (Patriots) and 2027 (Pro Football).