Rob Gronkowski recently reflected on how the current New England Patriots team compares to the championship squads led by legendary quarterback Tom Brady. Gronkowski signed a ceremonial contract to retire with the Patriots and spoke with reporters about the 2025 team”s chemistry and performance.
Before the Patriots achieved eight victories in their first ten games this season, Gronkowski, a future Hall of Fame tight end, helped the franchise secure three Super Bowl titles during its early 2000s dynasty. When discussing the current roster, he emphasized the importance of team chemistry, stating, “When you”ve got a group of guys that are in it with each other and know how to have that chemistry and work with each other and have the same timing on every single play… that”s what makes a great team.”
Gronkowski pointed out the similarity between the 2025 team and past championship squads, noting, “Sometimes we didn”t have a No. 1 guy, but everyone was a No. 1 guy, and everyone expected to get the ball, and everyone trusted in each other.” He sees parallels between this year”s Patriots and the successful teams from his playing days.
This season, wide receiver Stefon Diggs has emerged as the primary target in the Patriots” passing game, leading the team with 50 receptions and 554 receiving yards. Meanwhile, fellow receiver Kayshon Boutte has made his mark with a team-high five touchdown catches. Tight end Hunter Henry is also contributing significantly with four touchdown receptions.
Unlike some previous seasons, where a star receiver might have expressed frustration over not receiving enough targets, Diggs appears satisfied with his role in the 2025 offense. Gronkowski praised the team”s unity, saying, “They”re playing together as a team. When you play together as a team, you don”t necessarily need that big-time playmaker.” He acknowledged that early season concerns about needing a major playmaker were similar to discussions surrounding his own teams in previous years.
Looking ahead, Gronkowski expressed confidence in second-year quarterback Drake Maye, suggesting that he has the potential to be a long-term successor to Brady. For now, Maye will focus on leading the Patriots to a ninth win in eleven games as they prepare to face the New York Jets on Thursday night.
