Gronkowski Passes Sharpe on All-Time Receiving Touchdowns List

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski caught his 63rd career touchdown pass during the first quarter of Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos, passing Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe for third on the all-time touchdown receptions list for tight ends, per NFL on ESPN.

Unfortunately, the game didn't end as planned for Gronk, as he was forced to leave late in the fourth quarter with a knee injury.

Following Gronkowski's departure, the Patriots struggled a bit offensively, including a three-and-out in overtime that put the Broncos in good position for the drive that ended New England's hopes of an undefeated season.

Per ESPN, the star tight end is considered just week-to-week with a minor knee strain, which is good news for a Patriots team that still has Super Bowl aspirations. Lost in the shuffle amidst all of the injury news was Gronkowski's outstanding achievement in Sunday's game.

Still only 26 years old and in his sixth NFL season, Gronkowski topped the 1,000-yard mark in two of his first five campaigns. Assuming he's able to return in the next couple of weeks, he should reach the milestone once again, as he already has 931 receiving yards this season.

Now that he has passed Sharpe's 62 career touchdowns, Gronkowski can set his sights on the next tight end on the touchdowns totem pole, Antonio Gates of the San Diego Chargers.

There's a considerable gap between the two (Gates has 103 and counting), but the latter is nearing the tail end of his career, whereas Gronkowski likely still has some prime years remaining.

It may take a while, but even all-time leader Tony Gonzalez (111 touchdowns) will probably be looking up at Gronk eventually.