Rob Gronkowski has been given a new deal by the New England Patriots.

Gronkowski has signed a deal for $54 million over the next six seasons. Despite still having two years left on his rookie deal, a deal which wasn't paying him very much, the Patriots showed the kind of loyalty and commitment to Gronkowski that teammate Wes Welker has been desperate for.

It should come as no surprise that Gronkowski got this deal as he is crucial to the Patriots' success. Despite being a tight end, Gronkowski is Tom Brady's favorite target and the first player opposing defenses try to take out of the game.

Last year Gronkowski proved himself to be the best tight end in the NFL with a phenomenal season. He completely outplayed his rookie deal that was scheduled to give him $540,000 this year and $575,000 in his final year.

Now Gronkowski is the highest paid tight end in NFL history. That may seem like a lot of money to invest in a position that often isn't considered to be vital, but Gronkowski is definitely vital to the Patriots' success going forward.

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