The Facts: When Gronkowski was at his locker inside Gillette Stadium removing his personal belongings for perhaps the last time after announcing his retirement, owner Robert Kraft walked up to him to say goodbye. According to sources, Kraft delivered a clear and concise message that would resonate for months. Kraft told Gronkowski that he wants him to return for November, December, and a playoff run. If that happened, the team not only would welcome him back but will remain hopeful that it happens.
Diehards Line:Time is running out for Gronk to make a return. According to the rules, the last day for Gronkowski and the team to agree to grant him an official return to the roster would be Saturday, Nov. 30 -- the day before the team's Week 13 game. Because he's on the reserve/retired list, if he doesn't come off it by then, he's not eligible to play. Gronkowski has not turned in his retirement papers yet but that is often considered a formality and is not required to remain retired. One person who has recently communicated with Gronkowski said he has shown no signs of coming back to play. So there's that.