Victor Cruz: No one judges Gronkowski for partying because he's open about it
In addition to being regarded as the best tight end in the NFL, Rob Gronkowski has gained a reputation as the league's resident party animal.
The New England Patriots star recently hosted a three-day Caribbean cruise (also known as "Gronk's Party Ship"), sparking debate about whether there's a double standard when it comes to his antics versus the behavior of players like Odell Beckham Jr. or Cam Newton.
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz believes Gronkowski avoids harsh criticism because he's so open about his partying.
"I mean Gronk is kind of labeled as that guy that likes to have fun and party and things like that," Cruz told Nina Mandell of For The Win. "And you know that because he's open about it and doesn't hide it but if it was someone like Odell or Cam to do it, it would just be talked about a little bit more than when Gronk does it, because you expect that from Gronk and you don't expect that from Odell or Cam.
"So there's just a double standard there due to their personalities and how they are. But I think either one is cool," he said. "At the end of the day you have to live your life. You can't just be behind a tinted window the whole time and not be able to do what you want to do. I think there's a little bit of a double standard but at the end of the day do what you want."
Cruz's teammate Prince Amukamara and Houston Texans cornerback Charles James II also suggested there was a double standard for Gronkowski during a recent Twitter conversation:
@CJDeuce_ or OBJ lol
— Prince Amukamara (@PrinceAmukamara) February 22, 2016
As for why the public seems generally OK with Gronkowski's partying, Cruz believes it has a lot to do with his brand.
"That's just him and he's branded himself that way. And that's the way he is. I don't think it has anything to do with race," Cruz said. "I think it's more so Gronk being Gronk and doing what Gronk wants to do."