It’s the end of an era in the NFL as Rob Gronkowski is officially retiring, once and for all, and he’s doing it where it all began.

The former tight end will sign a one-day contract to officially retire, honoring the wishes of a friend who died of cancer.

Rob Gronkowski is returning to the Patriots. For just one day, and then for history. The Patriots have announced that Gronkowski will be in New England to sign a one-day contract with the Patriots on Wednesday so that he can officially retire as a Patriot.

Nearly six years after his final game in a New England uniform, Rob Gronkowski will sign a ceremonial one-day contract this week to retire as a Patriot. The ceremony is scheduled for 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday at Gillette Stadium, according to the team.