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Rob Gronkowski Finally Apologizes for Dirty Hit That Concussed Bills’ All-Pro in 2017

Rob Gronkowski made one of the dirtiest plays on a Buffalo Bills player in team history. And nearly a decade later, he's trying to make amends for his actions.

Published: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 4:26 PM
Rob Gronkowski Finally Apologizes for Dirty Hit That Concussed Bills’ All-Pro in 2017
Key Things to Know
  • Rob Gronkowski apologized for his 2017 late hit on former Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre'Davious White.
  • Gronkowski stated on NFL on FOX that the hit was driven by frustration with game officials over missed calls.
  • The 2017 hit left White concussed and resulted in a one-game suspension for Gronkowski.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Former New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski issued an apology for his 2017 late hit on Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre'Davious White during an appearance on the NFL on FOX pregame show. Gronkowski explained that his actions stemmed from frustration with uncalled holding penalties by officials rather than anger toward White, stating he wished he had verbally confronted the referee instead of elbow-dropping the rookie cornerback.

The 2017 incident resulted in a concussion for White and earned Gronkowski a one-game suspension. Writer Khari Demos noted that the apology coincided with the Buffalo native's efforts to reconnect with Bills fans, which recently included participating in pregame tailgating traditions during a Week 3 broadcast in Buffalo.

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