Rob Gronkowski seems to have a potential fix for the various issues surrounding Bill Belichick.
The former tight end for the Patriots mentioned that he is “getting sick” of the discussions about Belichick’s connection with 24-year-old Jordon Hudson, suggesting he understands what Belichick must do to silence his critics.
“Bill has to deliver, so I’m just going to tune it out. I’m eager to see him win some games,” Gronkowski, now 36, commented during the YouTube Brandcast 2025 event. “Because if he wins a few games, he’ll quiet everyone down. That will be entertaining to watch.”
Gronkowski also noted Belichick’s efforts as he leads the North Carolina football program during his first year as head coach.
This isn’t the first time Gronkowski has spoken on the matter. On Monday, he expressed concerns that Belichick’s relationship could be a “distraction” in this inaugural season.
“You know, sometimes you can’t help but think about yourself too,” Gronkowski shared during an interview with 98.5 The Sports Hub. “And you really shouldn’t let distractions enter your team or locker room. Just glancing at the North Carolina program can make you feel distracted all the time,” he continued. “We’re not even discussing soccer.”
There’s been plenty of buzz among NFL figures regarding Belichick and Hudson’s relationship, with former QB Cam Newton commenting on Gronkowski’s distraction remarks.
“I think it’s quite curious, especially for those who’ve been at the helm,” Newton remarked recently. “It’s not as distracting as people say. We talk about Jordon Hudson more than we even mention who’s starting at quarterback. Honestly, outside of Hudson, most couldn’t name three players from the North Carolina roster.”
“Now you’re in the same boat as a high schooler trying to join the team. Do you have to speak with his mom? It doesn’t look great,” he noted.
Newton played under Belichick in New England during the 2020 NFL season, where he eventually lost his starting position to rookie Mac Jones.
In a recent ESPN interview, Belichick addressed Hudson’s involvement with the Tar Heels, asserting that it “has nothing to do with UNC football.”
The University of North Carolina clarified that Hudson is not officially affiliated with the school.
“While Jordon Hudson isn’t an employee of the University or Carolina Athletics, he does have access to Carolina soccer facilities. He will continue to handle activities tied to Coach Belichick’s personal brands, aside from responsibilities relating to Carolina football and the university,” the statement read.
