Why Rob Gronkowski isn't playing tonight for Patriots after new Gronk contract

Rob Gronkowski goes down as one of the greatest players in the history of the New England Patriots.

This week, Gronk has been in the news, too.

The legendary tight end signed a contract with the Patriots this week, putting pen to paper on Wednesday.

It's not that kind of contract, though.

MORE: Jameis Winston sings 'Hamilton' lyrics before first start with New York Giants

Why isn't Rob Gronkowski playing for the Patriots against the Jets?

Gronk isn't on the field for the Pats against the Jets because he didn't sign a playing contract.

Gronokwski signed a one-day contract Wednesday to officially retire with the Patriots.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft quipped about the idea of a "two-day contract," and it was a fun joke in the moment.

It doesn't mean Drake Maye gets to throw to the guy who was Tom Brady's favorite target. Gronkowski made one NFL comeback already, having sat out 2019 before playing with the Buccaneers in 2020 and 2021 with Brady.

He will not be making a second retirement.

Gronkowski's cleats are officially hung up for good, but he already hasn't put them on for a while.

More NFL news:

• The Brian Daboll firing is all about Jaxson Dart
• Bills' new signee owns a dog that won the National Dog Show
• Jaire Alexander is making an unexpected NFL career move
• An NFL defensive tackle is leaving football to play pro lacrosse
• Aaron Rodgers' retirement decision hangs in the balance for the Steelers
• There's a $42.5 million problem with Cardinals cutting Kyler Murray