Rob Gronkowski Preps For Another Shot at Super Bowl Field Goal
Former NFL tight end Rob Gronkowski is gearing up for a monumental comeback, but not in the way you might expect. The four-time Super Bowl champion is preparing for a second chance to nail a field goal in an event that could result in a massive payout for fans. Gronkowski’s previous attempt in a FanDuel promotion last year fell short when he missed a 25-yard field goal. This year, the pressure is on as fans could win a share of $10 million in bonus bets if he succeeds.Last year's miss wasn't just personal—an expansive base of fans missed out on the opportunity for a share of the winnings. However, Gronkowski is approaching this year's attempt with a newfound sense of confidence, and with less pressure overall. The big question remains: can he convert his confidence into success on the field?
The Journey to a Perfect Kick
His journey to this point has involved guidance from an NFL legend. Adam Vinatieri, one of the most accomplished kickers in the league's history, coached Gronkowski before last year’s Super Bowl stunt. Despite Gronkowski's history of 143 NFL games before his retirement in 2021 and experience in youth Punt, Pass, and Kick competitions, field goal kicking proved to be a tricky endeavor.
Gronkowski’s technique last year leaned towards "soccer-style," but it wasn't enough to counter the unpredictable wind conditions. However, this year the weather forecast for Las Vegas on Sunday predicts more favorable conditions with light winds, setting the stage for a potential storybook outcome for the former Patriots and Buccaneers star.
FanDuel’s "Kick of Destiny" campaign significantly raised the company's brand visibility, with a 10-point increase in brand share attributed to the promotion. With anticipation building up again, FanDuel is leveraging the allure of the former NFL star's redemption story to capture the public's imagination.
A Newfound Respect for Kickers
The trials of field goal kicking have bestowed upon Gronkowski a deep appreciation for the professionals who make their living in the game's high-stakes moments. He has expressed profound respect for professional kickers, cognizant of the immense pressure they wrestle with each time they step onto the field.
This year's FanDuel promotion offers users the choice to place their faith in Gronkowski by betting on "Team Make" or hedge their bets with "Team Miss." Currently, an overwhelming majority of around 75 percent of FanDuel’s customers are rooting for success by siding with "Team Make."
The Las Vegas Valley will serve as the backdrop for what could be a memorable kick, broadcasted live for fans across the nation. In preparation, Gronkowski has been rigorous in his practice sessions, with reports stating that he’s successfully made about 85 percent of his practice attempts. Impressively, he has also hit field goals from a distance of at least 40 yards, demonstrating his significant improvement from last year's attempt.
Gronkowski's Comeback Kick: His Words
In light of his renewed attempt, Gronkowski's statements exude a mix of humor and determination. "I’m not going to miss again," he confidently proclaimed, emphasizing his commitment to nailing the field goal this time around. He terms his start last year as "embarrassing," an experience he is keen to put behind him.
Andrew Sneyd, FanDuel's executive, recounted the moment Gronkowski expressed his desire for redemption by saying, "He looked up and said, ‘Andrew, we have to do this again.’" It's a sentiment that's likely shared by the many fans who will be ardently following his Super Bowl Sunday moment, rooting for Gronkowski to hit the mark.
Gronkowski himself remains ever respectful of the psychological toll the kicking game takes, acknowledging that kickers perform under the intense scrutiny of the game-deciding moment. "I feel for them; it’s a tough job and, on top of it, they are doing it with the game on the line," he commented, empathizing with kickers who face similar pressures regularly.
As the nation awaits the Super Bowl festivities, Gronkowski's story adds an intriguing subplot to the game's narrative. A successful kick could secure his place not only in Super Bowl lore but also in the hearts of the lucky fans who stand to benefit from his redeemed field goal. Whether or not Gronkowski can translate his confidence into reality remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: all eyes will be on the towering former tight end come Sunday.