The Facts: It’s been five weeks since the Patriots lost Super Bowl LII and, not long after departing the field at U.S. Bank Stadium, Gronkowski created a sea of uncertainty when he declined to comment when asked about his football future. Since then it’s been reported that Gronkowski has soured on the regimented routine in Foxboro and felt he was “persecuted” and “singled out” last season, ostensibly by Bill Belichick. So, will he or won’t he? And when will we know? According to Peter King of The MMQB, he was told Gronkowski hadn’t made a decision on his future as of last weekend and wasn’t in a rush to do so.

Diehards Line: Even considering the timing of the question, what with it coming after a devastating defeat, it was a shocking admission from Gronk, who will turn 29 in May and has the size, speed, strength, and skill to play at an elite level for at least the next few years. Many fans believe Gronkowski should inform the Patriots of his plans sooner rather than later, what with free agency set to commence at 4 p.m. on Wednesday as his decision will directly impact their plans. But Gronk doesn’t owe the Patriots anything. And unless the Patriots are prepared to trade their four-time All-Pro tight end, Gronkowski will continue to maintain leverage in this apparent standoff because they have no choice but to wait it out. Which puts us in the same boat. So stay tuned.