Matt Light says Rob Gronkowski influenced his decision to play another season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 31, 2026, 9:20 AM
Last updated Oct 31, 2026

Matt Light revealed that Rob Gronkowski encouraged him to extend his career with the New England Patriots by another season. Light, who contemplated retirement after his 10th NFL season, developed a strong bond with Gronkowski, who joined the team in 2010. Light expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside Gronkowski, noting their relationship extended beyond football. Although the Patriots did not win the Super Bowl that year, Light cherishes the memories made. Gronkowski is set to enter the Patriots Hall of Fame and both players are collaborating on a sweepstakes for their charities.
- •Matt Light considered retirement after ten seasons in the NFL.
- •Rob Gronkowski's arrival influenced Light's decision to continue playing.
- •Both players maintain a strong friendship beyond their NFL careers.
- •Light retired in 2012 after the Patriots' Super Bowl XLVI loss.
- •Gronkowski is entering the Patriots Hall of Fame.
- 9:20 AMYahoo Sports — Patriots legend admits Rob Gronkowski influenced his decision to extend Patriots career
"Matt Light has revealed that Rob Gronkowski played a part in convincing him to delay retirement and spend another season with the New England Patriots. The former Patriots offensive tackle had considered hanging up his boots after his 10th NFL season but changed his mind after developing a close bond with the legendary tight end.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NFL•Oct 31, 2026, 10:10 AM‘Dictatorship’: Nate Newton issues massive warning over Troy Aikman’s plans to join Dallas Cowboys
NFL•Oct 31, 2026, 10:07 AM4 keys to a Commanders' Week 8 victory over Eagles
NFL•Oct 31, 2026, 10:07 AMSteelers wide receiver questionable to play in Week 8 vs Browns
NFL•Oct 31, 2026, 9:55 AMGiants' John Harbaugh called Titans owner in attempt to land Jeffery Simmons
NFL•Oct 31, 2026, 9:31 AMWhy Bengals, Zac Taylor called Bears happy about Jeffery Simmons trade
NFL•Oct 31, 2026, 9:08 AMBrowns' Grant Delpit takes shot at Steelers ahead of Week 8 showdown
