Report: Belichick frustrated with Gronkowski despite expected return

Although New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski is reportedly expected to return to his club for the 2018 season after considering retirement, a new report says things have been tense between the 28-year-old and his head coach.

There has been friction between Gronkowski and Bill Belichick, along with other members of the Patriots this offseason, as the head coach is questioning whether his tight end is "all in" with the team, sources told ESPN's Jeff Darlington.

Gronkowski reportedly cited the large physical and mental toll of playing the position and role the Patriots have him in as reasons for retirement consideration. Coming back to the team, Gronkowski is aware he will be expected to fill the same role.

Darlington adds that the tension could ease throughout the offseason if Belichick feels Gronkowski is showing a commitment to football.

One caveat to the report is that Gronkowski is "pretty certain" he will return for his ninth season as long as Tom Brady is also back, which is expected to be the case.