When you’re a rookie, the expectations here in New England don’t really change.
For young players coming out of college, it’s probably quite the role reversal. You go from being top dogs on their own team to the bottom of the ladder in the NFL and if you’re an offensive player joining the Patriots, how you impress Tom Brady plays a major role in your development.
Rob Gronkowski likely knows that better than anyone. When he came into the league, he’s admitted previously that Brady was tough on him. He would be hard on him in meetings and push him on the field and it’s likely played a big role in Gronkowski evolving into becoming the best tight end in the game.