Prior to the NFL's Week 3 Sunday night matchup between the New England Patriots and Detroit Lions, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Pats had considered trading All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski to a few different teams during the offseason. According to Schefter, the Lions were actually "deep into trade discussions" with the Patriots during the week of the NFL Draft, but talks were shut down when Gronk said he didn't want to play for the Lions, or anywhere other than New England.
After last night's 26-10 loss to the Lions, Gronk confirmed the news that he was nearly traded. He told reporters simply, "Yeah, it happened. Brady's my quarterback, that's all. Wasn't going anywhere without Brady."
This morning, Brady told WEEI (H/T ESPN), "I think that speaks to our relationship and I feel as strongly about him as he does about me. I love the guy. He's had a big impact on my career -- personally and professionally. Like I said, I'm very lucky to play with him and we're going to keep fighting."
The Patriots ultimately reworked Gronk's contract, which added $4.3 million in incentives for the 2018 season. According to ESPN, the 29-year old tight end can earn $1 million in per-game roster bonuses, plus a maximum of $3.3 million by hitting three of the following four incentives: 70 or more catches, 1,085 receiving yards, 80 percent playing time or nine or more touchdown catches.
Brady, Gronkowski and the Pats, now 1-2 on the season, will host the 3-0 Miami Dolphins in Week 4.
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