Gronk: 'Always open' to new deal, will let it play out
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski spoke to reporters and addressed the contract given to New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr.
"He's a great player, he comes up clutch in many situations and just his talent is second to none," he said Tuesday, via Patriots.com.
When asked if he would like tight ends to be referred to as pass-catchers when it comes to contract negotiations, Gronkowski smiled and said, "That would be pretty cool."
The four-time All-Pro tight end added he's "always open" to receiving a new deal of his own, but doesn't seem to be in any serious rush.
"I mean, it is what it is," Gronkowski continued. "That's not really my focus. I got a long season ahead, and just trying to focus on what I need to really do and just let everything else play out."
Related - Gronkowski: Who wouldn't want a new deal
The 29-year-old is due to carry a cap hit of $10.9 million for the 2018 season. That number bumps up to $12 million for 2019, the final year of a six-year, $54-million extension he signed in 2012.
Gronkowski was the subject of many trade and retirement rumors for much of the offseason, but he ultimately took part in the team's training camp ahead of his ninth NFL season and denied the notion that he ever considered holding out.
With h/t to NFL Network
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