Despite similar surnames, retired NFL TE Rob Gronkowski & Iowa QB Mark share no familial relationships. Both of them come from a family with Polish heritage, yet are not linked by anything.
Mark Gronowski and Rob Gronkowski are both big names in the world of football, and they hold different tiers of recognition.
While 2001-born Mark Gronowski is a college football quarterback, 1989-born Rob Gronkowski is a retired NFL tight end.
The similarity in their surnames and shared impression of football have also brought some confusion.
People strongly believe that they are related to each other and that the difference in a letter has added fuel to the fire.
Mark and Rob demonstrate excellence in football, one as an emerging star and the other as a fallen one.
Currently, Gronowski is trying to move up to the NFL, while Rob works as an analyst and commentator with FOX.
Football Icons Mark Gronkowski And Mark Gronowski Belongs To Polish Heritage, Yet Share No Links Apart From The Sport
Even though Rob and Mark play the same sport and share similar surnames, they are not related.
Rob Gronkowski, referred to as Gronk, is a former football tight end. He played in the NFL, mainly for the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Gronk played in the NFL for a total of 11 seasons, beginning with the Patriots in 2010. He ended his career with the Buccaneers in 2021.
In recent times, once tight ends in the NFL began working with Fox football broadcasts after their first retirement in 2019.
Talking about his family background, Rob was born to Gordon Gronkowski Sr. and Diane Walters, who are of Polish descent.
On the other hand, Mark Gronowski is an emerging talent in college football.
After a great time at South Dakota, the young lad plays as a quarterback for the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Born in the 21st century, he attended Neuqa Valley High School. It is where he began rising as a top American football prospect.
During the senior year, he completed 132 passes for 1,663 yards, achieving 15 touchdowns.
Mark’s father, Ray Gronowski, experienced playing QB at Drake University, influencing his football journey.
The Gronowski family also has Polish roots, such as the Gronkowskis, causing confusion among the people.
Both surnames have distinct origins and meanings, primarily rooted in Polish culture. However, the athletes are not related to each other.
Further digging into their potential relationship, we explored more about whether they’ve ever met or not.
Unfortunately, the former tight end and college quarterback have never met, at least as visible in the media.
Speaking about the milestones they hit in 2025 has provided them a kick in media.
The rumors don’t seem to settle despite them not being relatives, particularly due to their hype in 2025.
In 2025, Rob has had some action in his coaching commentary. From reacting to the firing of Jerod Mayo to supporting Mike Vrabel, he has caught headlines.
The former athlete believes that Vrabel could be a game-changer. Besides, he urges hiring former offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to assist.
On the other hand, the college football star has transferred from South Dakota State. There he led the Jackrabbits to two FCS national championships.
Over his collegiate career, Mark has recorded over 10,330 passing yards and 93 touchdown passes against just 20 interceptions.
After considering entering the NFL Draft, Gronowski opted to transfer to Iowa. It will significantly impact his NIL valuation in the days to come.
Following his injury in 2025, the young QB is set to undergo offseason surgery.
Additional Information
- Beyond his NFL career, Rob Gronkowski ventured into wrestling, winning the WWE 24/7 Championship in 2020.
- Gronk has an estimated net worth of almost $45 million from his NFL and analyst career.
