The NFL world may have assumed that the moment Sean Payton joined the Broncos, he’d put everyone to work immediately. And if fans assumed that, they were right to do so. The Denver Broncos hit rock bottom with no way up in a season that was supposed to be glorious. Russell Wilson received a king’s welcome (alongside a king’ contract) when he arrived. Broncos Nation was wide-eyed with hope. Wilson was the offensive weapon who could go head-to-head against their divisional rivals- the Kansas City Chiefs. However, there was some air around Rob Gronkowski’s return to the Broncos. And, the new coach has given some hints regarding this.
But Wilson cannot be solely blamed for the team’s fall from grace. Many fingers point in the direction of bad coaching. That’s where Sean Payton came in to, hopefully, save the day. With the team’s acquisition of Payton, they will set about rebuilding their standing within the league. But first, the new HC had some recruitment business to attend to.
Did Sean Payton tease a Rob Gronkowski return?
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As arguably one of the best TEs Rob Gronkowski’s speed and size made for a deadly opponent on the field. His dynamic bond with seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady paved way for complete dominance. The 4x Super Bowl champion is only 33 years old. Compared to Brady’s retirement at 45, Gronk had far to go. And like Brady, the TE has retired from the league on two occasions. Despite that, Gronk is still on the receiving end of recruitment calls.
Sean Payton is on the hunt for offensive weapons that can bolster the team. Having worked with Gronkowski on Fox for a year, the duo is more than familiar with each other. The HC, surprisingly, indulged in a playful bit online. The video was an instant hit.
“I’m working on changing our name to the Denver Groncos” 🤣@SeanPayton is in full recruitment mode 😂 @RobGronkowski pic.twitter.com/2AG16DUjbi
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) February 16, 2023
Making preparations for the TE to come to the Broncos, Payton urged his team to pitch in to find Gronk an orange tie and a navy suit. Going a step further, he showcased a crudely drawn ‘G’ on a piece of Broncos merchandise. With the letter ‘B’ crossed out, it spelled ‘GRONCOS.’ Payton took to Twitter to share a picture of his creation with the caption, “Let the recruitment begin!” Although the HC may have said this in jest, the possibility of a Gronk comeback excited fans.
Broncos Nation demands for Gronkowski
Rob Gronkowski responded to the video of Payton in the middle of his recruitment preparation.
Coach, you’re the best. Was an amazing opportunity to work with you this year and wishing nothing but success on the “Groncos” 😂😂 https://t.co/2eBIhr8Iis
— Rob Gronkowski (@RobGronkowski) February 16, 2023
The NFL world couldn’t contain itself. Broncos fans pleaded and exclaimed.
Still didn’t say no though!! Come on Gronk, please come to Denver, please
— Cody B (@Cody_Has_Ligma) February 16, 2023
Come on Gronk!!!!!!!!
— JK Cinematography (@JKarrCinema) February 17, 2023
Not a "no". 🥲
— Bri 🦇 (@BriMaestas303) February 16, 2023
Come on gronky…come to denver 🤣
— Puffpuffpass (@Codyweb79455499) February 16, 2023
Some users got ahead of themselves.
Gronk to the Broncos confirmed
— Stephen S. Dwyer (@SteveDwyer721) February 16, 2023
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So it’s a Yes !! @RobGronkowski !!!
— Manny j (@Mannyj07) February 16, 2023
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Gronkowski has been slightly restless during retirement. After coming back for a stint with Brady and the Buccaneers, he departed once more. Can Payton convince him to come back one more time? Or will this remain banter between two colleagues? Broncos Nation will hope it is the former as they anticipate a possible resurrection of their team in the next season.
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