Tom Brady, Julian Edelman react to Rob Gronkowski's retirement

Jan 24, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) with tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) and wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) against the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots lost their biggest pass-catching weapon in franchise history on Sunday, as tight end Rob Gronkowski officially announced his retirement from the National Football League.

A move that's prompted some of the Patriots' other GOATs, namely Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and No. 1 wide receiver Julian Edelman, to chime in with their thoughts on Gronkowski's decision.

"What an honor and [privilege] to play with you these past nine years [Rob Gronkowski]," Brady wrote on his personal Instagram. "You accomplished so much and our team was almost unbeatable when you were on the field! Your fun-loving, inspiring, and positive energy made an impact on everybody you came into contact with! Not just that, but for as great as a player you are, you are a better teammate and person.

"The NFL was a better place with you in it! But I have no doubt you will be a success in anything you do!!! Love you pal!"

Edelman, meanwhile, took to Twitter to mention Gronkowski as the "other Greatest of All Time."

Fittingly, the most successful offensive trifecta in New England history went out on top as Super Bowl LII champions.

julian edelman Rob Gronkowski Tom Brady

Ty AndersonEditor

Ty Anderson is 98.5 The Sports Hub’s friendly neighborhood straight-edge kid. Ty has been covering the Bruins (and other Boston teams) since 2010, has been a member of the PHWA since 2013, and went left to right across your radio dial and joined The Sports Hub in 2018. Ty also writes about all New England sports from Patriots football to the Boston Celtics and Boston Red Sox.