Bill Belichick, Rob Gronkowski apologize for inexcusable dirty hit on Tre’Davious White

Late in Sunday’s loss to the New England Patriots, Rob Gronkowski delivered an uncalled for dirty hit on Buffalo Bills rookie cornerback Tre’Davious White. After White got away with a hold and picked off Tom Brady, Gronkowksi lost his cool and dove on White hitting him with an elbow to the back of the head that sent White into concussion protocol and busted open his lip.

After the game, Bills head coach Sean McDermott and Patriots head coach Bill Belichick met in the middle of the field and exchanged some words. It is hard to make out what McDermott said to Belichick but it was clearly something about the cheap shot. Belichick responded with, “Oh I understand. It was bullshit. I’m sorry. I apologize.” It was the right move by Belichick, acknowledging that the play by Gronkowski was uncalled for. Here is the video of their exchange:

Leaving the field after the game, Gronkowski had a huge smile on his face minutes before facing the media and apologizing to White. It seems disingenuous to do such an about-face, but Gronk was trying to not get fined.

“I just wanted to apologize to Tre’Davious White, I don't believe in shots like that but did a frustration process.” Gronkowski said. “At the top of the route, I felt like it was a big hold... and I felt like he pushed me a little bit and made the play. I just don't understand why there was no flag.”

The full video of his answer to the situation:

Gronkowski has a boisterous attitude that a lot of people welcome but that was a cheap shot and he deserves to be suspended. An elbow to the back of the head isn't even a legal move in the UFC. If the NFL is serious about preventing head and neck injuries, Gronkowski should be handed a FedEx from Rodger Goodell as soon as possible, informing him of his suspension.