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Rob Gronkowski will return to Patriots in 2018 season

After leaving his plans open following the Patriots' loss in the Super Bowl, Rob Gronkowski announced he will be back in action next season.
Credit: Kevin Hoffman, USA TODAY Sports
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) celebrates by spiking the ball after scoring a touchdown during the first half against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field.

(USA TODAY Sports) — Amid his purchase of a minority stake in a race horse and his absence from the start of voluntary workouts, tight end Rob Gronkowski gave New England Patriots fans some positive news.

On Tuesday evening, he announced on Instagram that he will return to play next season.

“I met with coach today and informed him I will be back for the 2018 season with the Pats,” Gronkowski wrote on Instagram. “I have been working out, staying in shape and feel great. Looking forward to another championship run.”

I met with coach today and informed him I will be back for the 2018 season with the Pats. I have been working out, staying in shape and feel great. Looking forward to another championship run. #bandsamakeherdance

A post shared by Rob Gronkowski (@gronk) on

Gronkowski was reportedly absent for the start of New England’s offseason program, which started April 16, though he did hold a promotional news conference for a motocross event – in the very media workroom where he meets with media members covering the Patriots.

Multiple reports indicated that Gronkowski has been at odds with New England for a disagreement on training and recuperation methods. Gronkowski has been working with Alex Guerrero, who is quarterback Tom Brady’s body coach. Per several reports, Patriots coach Bill Belichick prefers New England’s players to use the team’s trainers.

Gronkowski has dealt with numerous injuries throughout his NFL career but had a very productive 2017 campaign, catching 69 passes for 1,084 yards and eight touchdowns. In three postseason games, he added 218 more yards and three more scores.

Follow Lorenzo Reyes on Twitter @LorenzoGReyes.

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