Gronk on role with Buccaneers: 'I came here to block baby'

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski has not played a huge role in the passing game so far this season. Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Rob Gronkowski on role with Buccaneers: 'I came here to block baby'

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 9/25/20

Rob Gronkowski hasn't played a large role in the receiving game for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this season despite being with longtime pal Tom Brady. With just two catches for 11 yards, Gronkowski has certainly looked like someone who retired after the 2018 season.

The tight end discussed his role with the Buccaneers on Friday, and it seems like he's more than okay with receiving fewer targets this season.

“I’m a blocking TE. I came here to block baby. 4 targets is 4 more than I thought I was going to get.” - Gronk when asked if he thought he’d be a larger part of the passing game so far.
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) September 25, 2020

Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians addressed Gronkowski's lack of offensive production earlier this week and explained that his squad isn't necessarily looking for the three-time Super Bowl champion to have a massive impact in the receiving game.

Arians added that the team isn't going to force passes to anybody, which could be a sign that Gronkowski just isn't getting open. It's not necessarily surprising, especially considering the fact he just played his first two NFL games in over a year.

As the season rolls on, both Brady and Gronkowski likely will continue to get more comfortable in Arians' system. With a matchup against a very injured Denver Broncos squad coming up, both players could have their best performances of the 2020 campaign on Sunday.

More must-reads: