Logo

After Win Over Jets, Robert Kraft Proposes Permanently Retiring Gronkowski’s No. 87 – And the Patriots Legend’s Humble Response Leaves Fans Even More Admiring

FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts – 11/14/2025

Right after the 27-14 victory over the New York Jets, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft thrilled fans by announcing his intent to permanently retire the No. 87 jersey of legend Rob Gronkowski. This would be a tribute to Gronkowski, who had retired just one day earlier as an irreplaceable part of Patriots history.

Article image

Kraft’s statement immediately captured fans’ attention:

“The No. 87 will forever be a symbol of greatness in the hearts of Patriots fans. Gronkowski is not just an outstanding player, he is the soul of the team during its golden years. This action is a fitting tribute to what he has contributed.”

Kraft’s declaration electrized not only Patriots Nation but the entire NFL media, as Gronkowski is one of the greatest players in franchise history, winning 3 Super Bowl titles and creating unforgettable moments on the field. However, Gronkowski immediately declined the honor with a humble attitude.

“I’m deeply touched by Mr. Kraft’s and the team’s tribute, but I want my legacy to continue being built by those who come after me rather than stopping at me. The Patriots are a great team and I want to see the next ones wearing No. 87 achieve even greater things.”

Gronkowski shared after receiving the proposal from Kraft.

Despite refusing the honor of retiring No. 87, Gronkowski’s action only made Patriots fans admire him more. He is not just an outstanding player, but also a role model of humility and long-term vision in building a legacy. Gronkowski’s legacy will surely live on in the hearts of Patriots fans, whether No. 87 is retired or not.

By declining this honor, Gronkowski proved he is not just a legend on the field, but also a continuer of the values and spirit of the New England Patriots.

2 views
Bears Owner George McCaskey Issues Ultimatum to CEO Kevin Warren After New Stadium Project Scandal — 150GB of Leaked Documents Shake Up Halas Hall
Chicago, Illinois – December 18, 2025 The Chicago Bears are beginning to rediscover momentum on the field, but behind closed doors at Halas Hall, a major crisis has erupted. According to multiple sources close to the organization, Bears owner George McCaskey has issued a direct ultimatum to CEO Kevin Warren following the leak of 150GB of internal documents tied to the franchise’s proposed new stadium project, exposing serious concerns about timelines, governance, and organizational trust. The leaked materials reportedly include high-level email exchanges, strategic presentations, and meeting notes involving Illinois officials and financial partners. The documents suggest repeated revisions to key milestones, risks that were previously downplayed, and commitments lacking firm foundations. For McCaskey, this is no longer a technical setback — it is a signal of a deeper problem. McCaskey has long viewed a new stadium as a cornerstone of the Bears’ future in Chicago and an extension of the Halas family legacy. After years of waiting for meaningful progress, the scope and nature of this leak are seen internally as the final line, prompting decisive action to protect the credibility of the organization. In remarks to the media, McCaskey avoided specific details but delivered a message that was deliberate and unmistakable. “We understand the responsibility we carry to this organization,” McCaskey said. “Not every decision needs to be played out publicly, but we have an obligation to ensure the direction of the Bears is clear, consistent, and worthy of the trust that’s been placed in us. When there are signs that confidence is being shaken, we have to confront the issue and act.” Warren was hired by the Bears in 2023 with the expectation that he would bring experience from helping deliver the Minnesota Vikings’ U.S. Bank Stadium to Chicago. Nearly three years later, however, the Bears’ stadium project has yet to reach a defining breakthrough, as political, financial, and public pressure continues to mount. The document leak has only amplified long-standing questions surrounding leadership and execution. What makes the situation especially sensitive is timing. The Bears are showing signs of on-field resurgence, and McCaskey is determined not to let that progress be overshadowed by turmoil behind the scenes. He is also reportedly unwilling to relocate the franchise far from Chicago — a move that could directly damage the legacy of George Halas and the team’s historic bond with the city. For now, Kevin Warren remains in his role as CEO. But McCaskey’s message leaves little room for ambiguity: the era of uncertainty and delay is over. As the Bears enter a pivotal stretch of the season, the franchise’s future — not only on Sundays, but in boardrooms — may be shaped by decisions made inside Halas Hall, where trust, accountability, and legacy are being weighed once again.