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Rob Gronkowski Says His Ankle Feels ‘Great,’ Is Happy Contract Will Keep Him With Patriots for Long Time

Rob Gronkowski was rewarded last week for his historic 2011 season. And it looks like the Pro Bowl tight end will be ready to live up to the lofty expectations of his new six-year, $54 million deal when the season rolls around.

Gronkowski took a few minutes to answer questions during a charity golf tournament for former Patriots offensive lineman Joe Andruzzi on Monday. And the conversation topics surrounded Gronkowski's health as well as his brand-new deal.

"Great," an excited Gronkowski responded when asked about the health of his surgically repaired ankle, according to CSNNE.

The 23-year-old pass-catching monster said his ankle was "feeling better every single week" during an interview just two weeks ago. But now it appears the tight end is finally feeling like the 6-foot-6 behemoth that set NFL single-season records for a tight end with 1,327 yards and 17 touchdowns last season.

Those are the same numbers that earned Gronk that hefty new contract, and he seemed very pleased with the commitment that both sides showed in getting the deal done.

"I'm just happy. Both sides are really happy," Gronkowski said before teeing off. "I love all my fans out there. It's a great community, a great team. It's awesome going out there every single Sunday in front of that crowd. I'm happy to be here long-term, definitely. It all worked out well."

Now that the tight end is healthy and  everything is in place to keep him in New England for years to come, the Patriots are surely awaiting plenty more Gronk spikes.