Rob Gronkowski Reportedly Agrees to 6-Year, $54 Million Extension with Patriots

Rob Gronkowski has reeled in 132 catches for over 1,800 yards with a ridiculous 28 receiving touchdowns in his first two NFL seasons for the New England Patriots, and now he is cashing in. 

According to a tweet sent out by ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Pats and the 6'6'', 265-pound target have agreed to a six-year, $54 million contract extension. 

"

Filed to ESPN: Patriots and Rob Gronkowksi agree to a six-year, $54 million extension. More on SportsCenter.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 8, 2012"

The 23-year-old pass-catcher was selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL draft out of Arizona. Upon being drafted, Gronkowski signed a four-year, $4.4 million deal with the team.

Since then, with the help of Tom Brady, he has blossomed into one of the league's most dangerous tight ends. 

After a 42-grab, 10-touchdown performance in his first professional season, Gronkowski exploded in 2011. He caught 90 passes for 1,327 with 17 touchdowns on a dynamic Patriots offense.

In New England's AFC championship game against the Baltimore Ravens, Gronkowski suffered a severe high ankle sprain. While he participated in the Super Bowl, he was visibly hobbled, and the injury hindered his ability to be a real threat for the Patriots. 

Gronkowski had surgery on his ankle this offseason and should be ready for training camp. 

With a recovered ankle, the newly-minted Gronk is primed to once again be a matchup nightmare for opposing secondaries this season.  

Follow @ChrisTrapasso