# JACKSON THOMPSON: Gronk calls on NFL to punish refs, says Patriots made last Super Bowl due to easy schedule

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/jackson-thompson-gronk-calls-on-nfl-to-punish-refs-says-patriots-made-last-super-bowl-due-to-easy-schedule/
- Published: 2026-10-30T11:02:42+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-30T11:14:32+00:00
- Original publisher: Fox News (publisher lean: Far right)
- Original article: https://www.foxnews.com/outkick-sports/jackson-thompson-gronk-calls-nfl-punish-refs-says-patriots-made-last-super-bowl-easy-schedule
- Topics: Offbeat, Weird & Viral, World

## Key points

- Gronkowski wants the NFL to punish underperforming referees.
- He says key calls could shape games and the play-offs.
- He doubts the 4-3 Patriots are Super Bowl contenders.

## Summary

Rob Gronkowski has urged the NFL to hold referees accountable with punishments, arguing that inconsistent calls can affect the outcome of games. He said officials need to improve on pass interference and roughing-the-passer decisions, while noting that the league already grades referees and uses those evaluations to help assign postseason games.

Gronkowski also questioned whether the New England Patriots can return to the Super Bowl, saying last season’s schedule was relatively easy and this year’s opponents are tougher. At 4-3 after losing 30-24 to the Chicago Bears, the Patriots have shown signs of decline, though he expects them to reach the play-offs and sees a chance to win their division; he cited injuries along the offensive line and a need for more playmakers.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.