Gronk's return is a big benefit to the Pats' draft strategy

Michael Dwyer | AP Photo

It’s official – Gronk is back.

The New England Patriots’ tight end has remained pretty quiet about his future plans with the team, after speculation of retirement was brought up following the team’s Super Bowl LII loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

But as of Tuesday, the veteran tight end made it official that he is returning for the 2018 season, according to this Instagram post. Gronk and head coach Bill Belichick met to discuss his future with the team.

Knowing that Gronkowski will be back is highly important for the Patriots’ draft plans. They now are aware of clarity and certainty at the position as they have him, Dwayne Allen, Jacob Hollister, Will Tye and Troy Niklas on their tight end depth chart. Knowing Gronk’s status allows the team to better plan for the upcoming draft.

Gronkowski has two years left on his contract and is set to get a base salary of $8 million in 2018.

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