Rob Gronkowski’s absence from Fox NFL Sunday this past week sparked rumors and speculation, especially after a playful jab from co-host Terry Bradshaw. Fans quickly wondered if the two were involved in some sort of on-air fallout. However, the truth behind Gronkowski’s missing appearance is far simpler than the gossip suggests.
Real reason behind Gronkowski’s absence from Fox NFL Sunday
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Rob Gronkowski just might be retarded
Rob Gronkowski, former Patriots star, made headlines when he missed this Sunday’s Fox NFL Sunday broadcast. Speculation quickly swirled—did Terry Bradshaw’s recent jab at Gronk’s on-air analysis play a part in his absence? The two have co-hosted the show for two years, but this week, Gronk wasn’t there.
The truth behind Gronkowski’s absence is much simpler and a bit less dramatic. He was actually in New Hampshire on November 24 to honor a commitment with Dick’s Sporting Goods, a date he’d set before the so-called “beef” with Bradshaw even happened. So, despite rumors, there was no falling-out or retirement plans at play here.
Still, Bradshaw’s comment about Jimmy Johnson filling in for Gronk sparked curiosity. Johnson, who retired from his role last year, was replaced by Gronkowski two years ago, and his name resurfaced after Bradshaw’s November 17 remark about the four-time Super Bowl champion. The speculation about a rift between Bradshaw and Gronk was fueled, but it seems there’s no drama, just a prior commitment for Gronk.
So, despite the chatter, Gronkowski’s absence had nothing to do with any tension with his co-host.
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Is there tension between Rob Gronkowski and Terry Bradshaw?
After the Lions’ dominant 52-6 victory over the Jaguars on November 17, the Fox NFL Sunday crew shared their thoughts on the game. Rob Gronkowski, a broadcaster for the show since 2022, highlighted how the Lions’ performance reflected Bill Belichick’s philosophy of never underestimating an opponent.
However, Terry Bradshaw couldn’t resist poking fun at Gronkowski’s analysis.“The guy whose seat you’re sitting in right now, while he’s on vacation” Bradshaw joked, referring to his absence.
Gronkowski, slightly nervous, responded,“I’m part of the show, Terry, okay? Where are you going with that?” Bradshaw quickly backtracked, apologizing with, “I apologize Gronk, you know I love you.” (via: EssentiallySports)
While the comment may have caught Gronk off guard, it was all in good fun—especially after the 35-year-old legend jokingly confirmed why his 76-year-old co-host sees him as a “part-time” worker due to his commitments to a $16 billion company.