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As NFL.com framed it, "Tight end Rob Gronkowski took many months following the 2017 season to decide that he wanted to play this season. Expect him to be in a similar situation following 2018." And in the least newsiest news possible, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport adds: "Some people close to him believe Gronkowski's decision will go the other way."

In what many have suspected and suggested all along, Gronkowski is expected to weigh retirement once again, and he may be playing the final games of his likely Hall of Fame career. Just 29-years-old and financially set,

Gronkowski nearly retired last season rather than be traded to the Lions and finish his career elsewhere.

He's said that he wouldn't catch passes from another QB not named Tom Brady and that is expected to hold. But as Rapoport noted, this season, it's been difficult to do that.

Trying to handle bumps and bruises related to his ankle and back, Gronk is having his worst statistical season since his rookie year.

He has the fewest touchdowns (3) he's ever had, the fewest 20+-yard catches (8), the fewest yards per game (52.5 yards) since 2010. And opponents have mostly ceased double-teaming him.

While he was feeling physically good going into Sundsay's Divisional Playoff game against the Los Angeles Chargers, those who know him well tell Rapoport the season has taken an emotional toll on him. Perhaps strongly considering retiring last year put him in a place where it was difficult to get fired up for this season.

"It's been more challenging," Gronkowski said this season. "But it's just a little more obstacles in the way. I mean, it's life. You gotta take 'em on."

The question is, how long will he take them on in an NFL uniform?

We should have out answer soon enough. I'll be watching for more in the coming days and weeks.