The beginning of 2024 hasn’t been particularly kind to Bill Belichick.
The Patriots and their legendary coach parted ways in January, he was passed over in the ensuing hiring cycle, and throughout February and March, “The Dynasty” on Apple TV+ hasn’t always painted Belichick in the most flattering light. Multiple Patriots players who participated in the 10-part docu-series have pushed back on its portrayal of their team, and Belichick is at the center of a number of controversies.
As a guest on the latest episode of MassLive’s “Eye on Foxborough” podcast, Rob Gronkowski praised his former coach at length and lamented Belichick leaving New England.
“It was very sad to see Coach Belichick go, because there wouldn’t have been a dynasty, there wouldn’t have been 20-plus years of a winning culture in New England without Coach Belichick,” Gronkowski said. “He set the standard. Coach Belichick was the standard. Without him, none of this was possible. There’s no doubt about that. To see him go was sad. I mean, I had a tear. Without him I wouldn’t be where I am today. Every good thing comes to an end, there’s no doubt about that. Now it’s time to flip the New England Patriots and see where they’re going.”
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The tight end and Belichick didn’t always see eye-to-eye during his tenure in Foxborough, but under the demanding coach, Gronkowski grew into one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. Despite any friction he may have felt with Belichick, Gronkowski said he wouldn’t change a thing about his Patriots career.
“Absolutely not. I needed that type of experience,” Gronkowski said. “I’m so glad I went to the New England Patriots. That fit my lifestyle. That fit my culture. It fit who I am as a person. I believe that I was designated to go to the New England Patriots as well. I would not change my first nine years of being with the New England Patriots. I was open arms welcomed by all the New England fans. No doubt about that. They loved me. I loved the fans up there. I loved the culture up. I love the Boston culture. Boston Strong culture. Just everything about it embroiled what I represent. It was just an amazing time. All the championships won.
“I kind of needed that structure as well in my life. I wouldn’t be where I am right now to this day without Coach Belichick being tough on myself and helping me get to the next level at practice or in a game. So I would never, ever, ever change a thing.”
