Patriots restructure Gronkowksi's deal, add $4.3M in incentives for 2018
The New England Patriots added $4.3 million in incentives to Rob Gronkowski's contract Thursday, allowing the star tight end to earn as much as $13.05 million this season, his agent told ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The 29-year-old Gronkowski can collect $1 million in per-game bonuses and another $3.3 million if he hits three of four performance incentives. No additional years were tacked onto the end of his existing deal, meaning he's still on track to become a free agent after the 2020 season.
Gronkowski's contract had been a source of intrigue throughout the spring and summer, with rumors swirling that he was looking for a raise to squash any thoughts he was having about an early retirement.
With his supposed hesitancy about committing to his playing future, the Patriots reportedly started listening to trade offers for their franchise tight end.
A five-time Pro Bowler, Gronkowski led the Patriots in receiving last season with 1,084 yards and eight touchdowns.