Patriots restructure Rob Gronkowski’s contract, could make him highest-paid TE in NFL

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If New England Patriots Rob Gronkowski stays healthy over the next season, he could become the highest-paid tight end in the NFL.

Per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, Gronk and the Patriots restructured his contract on Tuesday afternoon. He could potentially increase his salary this season from $5.25 million to $10.75 million.


In order to do this, Gronk has some incentives on the line.

If the tight end reaches 70 percent playing time, 60 receptions, 800 receiving yards or 10 touchdowns, he will earn $6.75 million this season. If he attains 80 percent playing time, 70 catches, 1,000 receiving yards or 12 touchdowns, he will make $8.75 million. Or, if Gronk plays 90 percent of the time, catches 80 passes, totals 1,200 receiving yards or earns and All-Pro recognition, he will get the full $10.75 million.

If Gronk is looking to cash in, he’ll have to maintain his health. The 28-year-old hasn’t played a 16-game season since 2011 and has missed 30 of the Patriots’ 92 games (including playoffs) over the last five seasons.

The tight end is signed through 2019, and the final two years of his contract were not affected by Tuesday’s restructuring.

Follow Megan on Twitter: @carnahanmegan

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