New England Patriots Quotes: Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski Talk Chargers

Nov 2, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) flips the ball to an official after a reception during the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

Rob Gronkowski

Q: What has the week in San Diego been like for you?

RG: It’s been good. Just been practicing – it’s just like basically another full week of work, just in a new location. Everything is going smooth, everything is going well.

Q: Have there been any surprises or is it just like being away from home but together as a team?

RG: No surprises at all. It’s basically just being together with the team, just being away from home. You said it right. Just everything is going the same, everything is going well. The preparation is going the same as any other week.

Q: Are you worried about the Justin Bieber curse?

RG: We’re just on to San Diego. We’re just worried about the Chargers, man.

Q: What are your thoughts on Antonio Gates?

RG: He’s an unbelievable player. Ever since high school I’ve looked up to him. I love the way he runs routes and how he gets open and how he makes it stick at the top of the routes to get open. I’ve always watched him ever since growing up and I still watch him to do this day to learn from him.

Q: What kind of problems does the Chargers defense present to you guys?

RG: A lot of problems. They’re fast and they’re ready to play. They’re mentally and physically tough. We have to go out there, we have to execute and we have to be ready to go out there and play.

Q: Gates said yesterday that you have to take it easier on your body if you want to last. Is that something that you’ve considered?

RG: That’s always a consideration. There are times to take it easy and there are times to not take it easy. [I’m] just trying to play some football right now, that’s all.

Q: Is his longevity in the league inspiring?

RG: Oh, definitely. Whenever you see a tight end of that caliber playing every single week – what is this, his 12th year – and going out there every week and making a huge impact and making huge plays and looking like he’s in his early-20s still, it’s unbelievable. Obviously he knows what he’s doing. He’s a player to look up to, no doubt about that. It’ll be cool to talk to him and learn what he’s done the whole time to keep playing and keep playing at that high level. He’s a great player and I definitely look up to him.

Q: You and Antonio have a chance to become the first tight end to have four 10-touchdown catch seasons in your career. What does a milestone like that mean at this point in your career?

RG: I mean, as of right now, I’m not really worried about any of that. The thing I’m really focused on is getting a victory every week and going out and doing my job and everything else is going to take place on its own. So, [I] just go out, do my job and make plays when my number is called and help out the team.