New England Patriots: 16 most important Patriots during their dynasty

13. Rob Gronkowski

The Ringers Rank: 8

In just eight NFL seasons, Rob Gronkowski has already been mentioned as the greatest tight end in NFL history. When he’s on the field, Gronk is too big to match up against a corner and too fast to be guarded by a linebacker, a complete matchup nightmare.

Not only is Gronkowski a beast through the passing game, he’s one of the best run blocking tight ends in the NFL.

"“When Gronkowski is on the field for the Patriots, the offense is essentially playing with six offensive linemen,” Cian Fahey of Bleacher Report said. “Not only is he a massive body who can move comfortably in space, he also plays with excellent body control and leverage. He is not just a willing blocker, he relishes the opportunity to clear out running lanes.”"

Gronk has already shattered the production of old greats like Tony Gonzalez and Antonio Gates. His touchdown per game rate sits at 0.77, 0.23 above Gates. His 69.3 yards per game and 9.88 yards per target cannot be matched by any other tight end in NFL history.

"“I think the biggest thing is that [Gronk is] a smart player,” says former Patriots tight end Martellus Bennett. “Physicality only takes you so far. There are lot of other players who are just as physical and just as fast. You have to be able to outsmart those guys and know how to attack them.”"

Gronkowski has won two Super Bowls in his time in New England but was injured for the victory in Super Bowl LI. He also was a member of the losing team in 2011 but was playing on a bad ankle sprain. If he was healthy for that game, one has to think the outcome would have been different.