The New England Patriots and tight end Rob Gronkowski may have a new deal. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reports that Gronkowski and the Patriots have agreed to a new contract that would replace the final two seasons on Gronk's rookie deal, which were scheduled to run through 2013 season.
Rob Gronkowski, Patriots Talking Contract Extension, According To Reports
Rob Gronkowski and the Patriots are negotiating a new contract, according to multiple reports.
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Curiously, Gronkowski’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, denies the report, so this is still in the unconfirmed stage. The Boston Herald reports the two sides are negotiating, but a deal hasn’t been finalized yet.
But if it’s accurate, then it makes sense. Gronkowski is clearly a part of the future, and with two years remaining on his rookie deal, the Patriots would be wise to pay him now to add years onto his deal. Gronkowski’s talent says he should be one of, if not the highest paid tight end in the game, which suggests a long-term deal could be in the range of $9 million to $10 million per year.
The longer you wait, the more expensive Gronkowski would be, assuming he keeps playing at a high level.
And saying Gronk is playing at a high level may be understating it. He has 27 career starts since the Patriots made him a 2nd round pick in 2010 and he also has 27 career touchdowns -- 17 last year and 10 his rookie year. He’s one of the best tight ends in the NFL already and his numbers are just ridiculous for someone his age.
For more on the Patriots, visit Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston.
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