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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.

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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.

Dallas Cowboys $80M star is working as a part-time teacher at Jesuit College Preparatory School in Dallas, where he personally teaches one class each week during the NFL season
Dallas, Texas – January 2026 Not every contribution from an NFL veteran shows up on a stat sheet or flashes across a highlight reel on Sunday afternoon. Some of the most meaningful work happens quietly, away from the noise, long after the stadium lights go out. During the 2025 season, Osa Odighizuwa chose to invest his time not only in anchoring the defensive front for the Dallas Cowboys, but also in the city he has long called home. And he did it in a way few fans ever notice — with a weekly commitment rooted in education, presence, and mentorship. Rather than limiting his off-field impact to donations or occasional appearances, Odighizuwa made a decision that required something more valuable: consistency. Throughout the 2025 NFL season, he showed up in person, once a week, inside a classroom at Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas, one of the area’s most respected private high schools. Jesuit’s reputation for excellence in both academics and football made it a natural fit for a standout defensive tackle who values discipline, accountability, and preparation. Odighizuwa taught one class per week, focusing on life skills shaped by his years in the league — decision-making, responsibility, leadership, and the importance of showing up even when no one is watching. The commitment came in the wake of his major four-year, $80 million contract extension signed in March 2025. On the field, Odighizuwa’s year was defined by dominance and leadership. He remained a force up front, starting nearly every game, racking up solid tackle numbers, sacks, and key stops that bolstered the Cowboys' run defense. His impact grew as the season progressed. In the postseason (nếu Cowboys vào playoff), he delivered standout performances that highlighted his value. Inside the organization, teammates and coaches pointed to his professionalism and presence — the same traits that defined his role away from the field. That mindset carried seamlessly into the classroom. His presence wasn’t symbolic. It was intentional. Week after week, he showed up with the belief that influence requires proximity, and that leadership only matters if it’s lived consistently. For the Cowboys, Odighizuwa’s season became about more than football production. It became a reflection of commitment — to teammates, to the city of Dallas, and to young people learning what leadership actually looks like when the cameras aren’t rolling.