Mic’d Up Rob Gronkowski Ensured Tom Brady for an Additional Catch – For $500,000

In Tampa, discussions on contract incentives are buzzing.

BOSTON (CBS) — Talks about contract incentives are buzzing in Tampa.

Just last week, after his controversial exit from the team, Antonio Brown lamented about the Buccaneers offering him a “prove-it” contract, demanding on-field performance for full contract value. He cited Rob Gronkowski as an instance of a teammate securing more guaranteed earnings due to his rapport with Brady. Brown purportedly urged the Bucs to ensure his incentive bonuses before the Week 17 clash with the Jets.

Brown had a shot at earning extra cash by staying on the field throughout the game and playing in Week 18. He needed 11 receptions and 281 receiving yards in the final two weeks to pocket an extra $666,666. This windfall could’ve offset the wages lost due to Brown’s use of a counterfeit COVID-19 vaccination card. However, instead of seizing the opportunity, Brown exited the field and parted ways with the team after a modest performance of three catches for 26 yards against the Jets.

Interestingly, if Brown had expressed his desire, he could’ve easily earned the additional money from Tom Brady.

That’s precisely what Gronkowski did, as revealed by a mic’d up segment set to air on “Inside The NFL.” The clip captures Gronkowski on the Bucs’ sideline during their faceoff against the Panthers. Having already surpassed his receiving yardage incentive for an extra $500,000 earlier in the game, Gronk needed just one more catch to secure an additional $500,000 – and he was keenly aware of it.

“I need one more,” Gronk asserted to Brady.

“One more catch?” Brady sought confirmation.

“Yeah,” Gronk affirmed.

The two exchanged fist bumps, sealing the deal.

“If I don’t get that seventh catch, I’ll have to find a real job,” Gronk quipped on the sideline, while head coach Bruce Arians conversed with Brady in the background. Speculation arose that Brady resolved to keep playing to secure Gronkowski’s earnings during this exchange, though it’s uncertain.

Nevertheless, Brady delivered, ensuring Gronkowski’s 55th catch of the season and the accompanying $500k.

“Tom — Great pass, buddy! Thanks, buddy!” Gronkowski expressed, before celebrating his bonus million dollars with teammate Donovan Smith.