Rob Gronkowski is no longer a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers since his retirement, but many Bucs fans (and football fans, in general) are still holding out hope for a return.

Unfortunately, according to Gronkowski, that's not happening.

The future Hall of Fame tight end said as much Tuesday.

"I'm done with football," Gronk said in a recent interview with ESPN's Mike Reiss. "But love the game and definitely blessed with all the opportunities the game of football has given me …

"But, no, [I'm] done with football and I'm stepping into the business world and just seeing what's out there and where I can find my place."

But what if Tom Brady called and asked Gronk to come back? Would Gronk unretire like he did back in 2020?

"I'd obviously answer the greatest quarterback of all-time and ask him how he's doing and tell him I'm doing good. But, I wouldn't go back to football, no."

Can the Buccaneers tight ends step up in 2022?

Cameron Brate is a decent option, but he's definitely past his prime. After Brate, there are two rookie draft picks in fourth-rounder Cade Otton and sixth-rounder Ko Kieft.

Otton is a true Y-tight end like Gronkowski, but he's yet to practice in an official capacity due to his recovery from last year's ankle injury. Kieft is strictly a blocker, but has shown some hands during OTAs.

While there is potential, these guys are going to have to prove that they are capable options in this offense. The good news is that historically, a Byron Leftwich/Bruce Arians offense doesn't really involve tight ends in the passing game. However, with Brady at quarterback, that's obviously changed over the last couple of years.

It's likely the Buccaneers ride with these three heading into camp and they'll probably even stick with them into the season if things go well. But, don't be surprised if the Buccaneers make a move -whether it be a trade or a free agent signing- during camp if any of the three don't look the part or struggle.

Brady can do just about anything when it comes to the NFL, but unfortunately, it doesn't look like he'll be able to coax his best buddy out of retirement.

Featured image via Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports