The Dan Patrick Show: Hour 3 – "Shooting Your Shot" with Rob Gronkowski

Release Date: December 10, 2024
Host: Dan Patrick
Guest: Rob Gronkowski
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network

1. Introduction to the Episode

The third hour of The Dan Patrick Show features a lively and engaging conversation with former NFL star Rob Gronkowski. The episode, aptly titled "Shooting Your Shot," delves into Gronkowski's illustrious football career, his personal anecdotes, and his perspectives on the sport and life beyond the field.

2. Gronkowski's Early Football Aspirations and Career Path

Timestamp: [05:29]

Rob Gronkowski begins by reminiscing about his childhood passion for football, particularly his admiration for the Buffalo Bills.

Rob Gronkowski: "When I was growing up as a kid, I 100% did want to play for Buffalo. That was the team."

Despite his initial dreams, Gronkowski shares how being passed over by the Bills served as motivation, ultimately leading him to the New England Patriots—an opportunity he acknowledges was "a way better situation at the time." Reflecting on his time with the Patriots and later the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Gronk emphasizes the importance of performing consistently to earn trust and freedom from coaching staff.

3. Interaction with Joe Burrow and The Cincinnati Bengals

Timestamp: [09:04]

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals. Gronkowski narrates an amusing incident where Burrow attempted to recruit him post-retirement.

Rob Gronkowski: "He's like, yo, Gronk, I could have used you. And I was like, no, when I'm retired, trust me, you don't want me out there on the field."

This anecdote highlights Gronk's playful side and his respect for Burrow's talent, likening him to Tom Brady in terms of composure and leadership on the field.

4. Reflections on Bill Belichick's Coaching Style

Timestamp: [11:43]

Gronkowski offers insights into his relationship with the legendary coach Bill Belichick. He praises Belichick's comprehensive knowledge of football and his ability to manage players effectively.

Rob Gronkowski: "Coach Belichick is the best coach, hands down, in the game of football."

Gronkowski contemplates whether Belichick would excel as a college coach, noting the differences in responsibilities between NFL and college coaching, particularly in recruiting and managing young athletes.

5. Hosting the Art of Sport LA Bowl

Timestamp: [14:49]

Transitioning to his post-retirement ventures, Gronkowski discusses his role as the host of the Art of Sport LA Bowl, scheduled for December 18th. He shares his enthusiasm for contributing to the event and his efforts to bring energy and excitement to the game.

Rob Gronkowski: "My goal is to bring energy to the crowd, to bring energy to the teams. All that good stuff."

Gronkowski reminisces about his own experience playing in a similar bowl game during his college days at the University of Arizona, highlighting his personal connection to the event.

6. Personal Life and Relationships

Timestamp: [16:33]

In a candid turn, Gronkowski opens up about his personal life, particularly his relationship with his long-term girlfriend. He humorously hints at imminent marriage plans while emphasizing their strong mutual understanding and support.

Rob Gronkowski: "We've been with my girl for quite some time now. She's wonderful. She's the best."

The conversation lightly touches upon societal pressures during the holiday season, with Gronkowski jokingly attributing their relationship stability to watching Hallmark movies together.

7. Anecdotes on Dating and Famous Encounters

Timestamp: [28:00]

The dialogue shifts to humorous and relatable stories about attempting to "shoot one's shot" with famous individuals. Gronkowski recounts a past experience where he considered asking out actress Lori Singer but ultimately decided against it, leading to mild regret.

Rob Gronkowski: "I remember getting a vibe and going, maybe I should ask her out. And then I thought better of it and didn't."

Dan Patrick shares a similar story about narrowly missing a potential relationship opportunity due to a producer's oversight, fostering a light-hearted exchange about missed romantic chances.

8. Defining Gronkowski's Legacy in Football

Timestamp: [32:24]

The conversation delves into Gronkowski's standing among the greatest tight ends in NFL history.

Dan Patrick: "Tony Gonzalez, to me, is the best tight end. Like, statistically, that's the best tight end of all time."

While acknowledging Gronk's exceptional performances and charismatic personality, both hosts agree that Gronk's legacy is multifaceted, extending beyond mere statistics to his influence and persona in the sport.

9. Listener Engagement and Interactive Segments

Timestamp: [35:00]

Throughout the episode, Dan Patrick and Gronkowski engage with listeners through live calls, trivia, and interactive polls. Topics range from Heisman voting intricacies to playful banter about personal anecdotes. Notably, Paulie questions Gronkowski's candidness and resilience, reflecting the show's interactive and dynamic format.

10. Closing Remarks and Future Endeavors

Timestamp: [17:27]

As the episode wraps up, Gronkowski reinforces his excitement for the upcoming Art of Sport LA Bowl and extends an invitation to Dan Patrick to attend. The hosts share mutual respect and camaraderie, leaving listeners with anticipatory excitement for future events and episodes.

Key Quotes:

• Rob Gronkowski on Coaching Trust:

  "If you're having fun, but you're balling out he lets you do what you do."

  [11:54]

• Gronkowski on Belichick’s Coaching Prowess:

  "Coach Belichick is the best coach, hands down, in the game of football."

  [13:07]

• On Hosting the LA Bowl:

  "It's just to expand, you know, my family name... bring the Gronk effect to the game."

  [15:04]

• Personal Anecdote on Missed Romances:

  "I kind of regretted it."

  [28:16]

• Defining Gronk's Legacy:

  "He's unstoppable and different than Kelsey."

  [32:37]

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Patrick Show offers a comprehensive look into Rob Gronkowski's life, both on and off the field. From his football aspirations and professional relationships to personal stories and future projects, Gronkowski provides an intimate and entertaining narrative. Dan Patrick skillfully navigates the conversation, blending sports analysis with light-hearted banter, making the episode both insightful and enjoyable for listeners.