If Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly needs any advice on how to handle his post-NFL career life, former New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski can give him some advice.
Kuechly became the latest All-Pro player to retire Tuesday when he announced his decision to leave the Panthers in a video.
Many current and former players reacted to Kuechly's surprise revelation, including Gronkowski, who couldn't help making a joke after congratulating the former Boston College star on a great career.
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Gronkowski teased a potential comeback throughout the 2019 season but ultimately decided (at least to this point) to stay retired. Given the injuries Kuechly battled throughout his career, it would be pretty surprising if he thought about coming back to pro football.
When people think of Gronkowski and Kuechly, one play immediately comes to mind.
New England Patriots
Kuechly and Gronkowski were entangled in a controversial no-call during the 2013 season when the Panthers escaped with a 24-20 Week 11 win at home over the Patriots.
Patriots quarterback Tom Brady threw a pass into the end zone targeting Gronkowski on the final play of the game, but it fell way short. Gronkowski, however, was clearly being held by Kuechly while the ball was in the air. A flag was thrown but no penalty was called, and Brady showed his frustration by confronting the referee.
With both Gronkowski and Kuechly now retired, perhaps they'll laugh about this play sometime in the near future, if they haven't already.