Robert Kraft's initial reaction to Rob Gronkowski’s Patriots HOF nod

New England Patriots chairman and CEO Robert Kraft sent his congratulations to Rob Gronkowski for being named the 2026 inductee into the Patriots Hall of Fame on Wednesday.

The Patriots released a statement from Kraft following the announcement of Gronkowski being voted into the Hall.

"Rob Gronkowski's performance on the field was extraordinary, but it was his infectious energy and consistently positive presence that truly set him apart," Kraft said. "He always brightened everyone's day. He earned the respect of coaches and teammates through his work ethic, preparation and unselfish approach, while redefining what it meant to play his position. Rob became a fan favorite almost immediately and remained the standard at tight end for nearly a decade. We look forward to celebrating his induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame and, in time, the Pro Football Hall of Fame."

Kraft became the owner of the Patriots in 1994 with an objective to “bring a championship to New England.” Gronkowski helped New England win three Super Bowls in his nine years with the team from 2010-2018, after being drafted by the Patriots with the No. 42 overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.

”Gronk” was instrumental in Kraft increasing his Super Bowl win total to six at the helm of the Patriots. He is now on his way to the Patriots Hall of Fame as its newest inductee.

Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Robert Kraft's initial reaction to Rob Gronkowski’s Patriots HOF nod