How A Goofy Rookie Called 'Gronk' Transformed Into The Best Tight End Ever

Rob Gronkowski arrived in New England as a lovable, party-first, hot-tub-talking giant who initially baffled and even worried the buttoned-up Patriots staff.
Bill Belichick — after film and a risky trade up in Round 2 — and teammates like Tom Brady helped turn Gronk’s raw talent and coachability into elite technique.
The result: a Hall of Fame-caliber tight end (iconic 2011: 90 catches, 1,327 yards, 17 TDs) who softened even Belichick and makes a great “how’d that happen?” bar story.