Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski explains why Chiefs star Travis Kelce cannot be compared to him

Travis Kelce is currently one of the top players at his position in the NFL. The talented Kansas City Chiefs tight end has maintained his dominance in recent years—especially following the retirement of New England Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski from professional play.

Both players not only shared the same position on the field—standing out as elite TE’s—but also wore the iconic No. 87 jersey. Despite the similarities, the Super Bowl champion with both the Patriots and the Buccaneers made it clear to the media that their playing styles are quite different.

“There’s really like not a comparison,” Gronkowski started. “You can compare us, but we are two totally different players. It all depends on what kind of scheme you are in as well. They know how to use the skill sets. We have two totally different skill sets by far.

“He is savvy on the top of the route. I was like, I’m gonna run and I’m just gonna go to the corner. This guy has like eight moves. He’s like a wide receiver out there. You can compare us because we both wear the number 87.”

Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs and Rob Gronkowski #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers speak after Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium on February 07, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers defeated the Chiefs 31-9.

Gronk also added in a recent episode of Dudes on Dudes: “I’m not sick of it, he’s a great player. He definitely belongs as the best tight end in the NFL or debatable as being the best tight end in the NFL due to his stats and what he has done for the position.”

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The greatest showdown between Kelce and Gronkowski

Two of the greatest tight ends in NFL history faced off one final time in a decisive showdown. It was early February 2021, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Kansas City Chiefs were set to clash in Super Bowl LV.

Rob Gronkowski on one side and Travis Kelce on the other were central figures in what turned out to be an epic victory for Bruce Arians’ squad— played at the Bucs’ home stadium. Led by an extraordinary performance from Tom Brady, Tampa Bay defeated the Chiefs 31-9, securing the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy.

When it came to individual stats, it was Gronk who ultimately got the upper hand over his counterpart. The former Patriots star hauled in two touchdown receptions, while Kelce ended the night scoreless.