Report: Tom Brady threw passes to Rob Gronkowski in workout at UCLA

By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com

Well this ought to keep the rumors alive for another 12 years or so. Rob Gronkowski was spotted at UCLA with Tom Brady on Monday, and they probably weren't just saying hello.

According to Andrew Callahan of MassLive, Brady threw to Gronkowski in a private workout on the UCLA football field. UCLA freshman quarterback Chase Artopoeus confirmed Brady and Gronkowski's presence when he posted photos of himself with each of them on his Instagram page (h/t Mark Daniels).

Brady visited UCLA in May and threw to members of their football team. His apparent workout with Gronkowski adds quite the wrinkle to his offseason workouts, which have also included throwing sessions with non-retired Patriots receivers like Julian Edelman, N'Keal Harry, and Josh Gordon.

This is obviously far from a sure sign that Gronkowski may come out of retirement mere months after he entered it. But you can't blame Brady for attempting to goad Gronk into one more NFL season, which he's ostensibly trying to do. Gronkowski has dropped weight recently, slimming down to around 250 pounds - a common occurrence for retired players who no longer need NFL bulk.

But that doesn't mean Gronk couldn't pack the mass back on if he decides he wants to play again. For the next several months, this one workout with Brady will be some strong evidence for those who believe he will eventually be pulled back in to the Patriots.

Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.