Report: Rob Gronkowski Skipping Start of Offseason Program, Could Still Retire

Tight end Rob Gronkowski reportedly won't be in attendance when the New England Patriots' offseason program begins Monday.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Gronk has had "good communication" with the organization, and he is still weighing whether he wants to play in 2018.

Shortly after the Pats' Super Bowl LII loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Gronkowski confirmed that he would consider his options during the offseason when asked about retirement, per Henry McKenna of USA Today:

"

Rob Gronkowski said he was going to reflect on his future when asked if he’s considering retiring.

He wouldn’t commit to returning in 2018. pic.twitter.com/ApdZKKMqyM

— Henry McKenna (@McKennAnalysis) February 5, 2018"

Although Gronkowski has yet to commit to returning, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported in February that he was expected to play in 2018.

After an injury-plagued 2016, Gronk appeared in 14 games last season and finished with 69 receptions for 1,084 yards and eight touchdowns en route to his fifth Pro Bowl and fourth All-Pro First Team nod.

Gronk also appeared in all three of New England's playoff games. However, a concussion forced him to leave the AFC Championship Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

With 474 catches for 7,179 yards and 76 touchdowns in his career through only eight seasons, the 28-year-old Gronkowski is already among the most productive tight ends in NFL history.

If Gronk does decide to step away from football, Dwayne Allen is currently in line to be quarterback Tom Brady's No. 1 option at tight end.