NFL: Tight end Rob Gronkowski sets New England Patriots touchdown record

BUFFALO native Rob Gronkowski enjoyed a record-breaking homecoming, setting a New England Patriots record with his 69th career touchdown.

Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots.

BUFFALO native Rob Gronkowski enjoyed a record-breaking homecoming, setting a New England Patriots record with his 69th career touchdown in a 41-25 victory over the Buffalo Bills.

Gronkowski, who grew up in suburban Buffalo, eclipsed the mark Stanley Morgan had set in 1989.

“Definitely an honour to come home to my hometown and get that record,” Gronkowski said.

“To hold the record for most franchise touchdowns is just unbelievable.

“Stanley Morgan actually called me to congratulate me.

“He was an awesome player and an awesome guy. He said congratulations and it was pretty cool. To get a phone call from him already, right after the game in the locker room, was something special.”

Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots runs for extra yards.

Gronkowski has done more damage against the Bills than any other opponent, catching 52 passes for 813 yards and 11 touchdowns in 11 games. The Patriots (7-1) are 9-2 against the Bills (4-4) with Gronkowski in the line-up. One of those losses came four weeks ago, when Gronkowski was still limited by a hamstring injury and quarterback Tom Brady was still suspended. Brady improved to 26-3 against the Bills, tying Brett Favre’s NFL record for most wins against a single opponent.

Laurie Horesh, Melanie Dinjaski and Patrick Stack are joined by Aussie Denver Broncos defensive lineman Adam Gotsis, and recover from Week 7’s unbelievable overtime mayhem!

Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots celebrates his touchdown.

Originally published as NFL: Tight end Rob Gronkowski sets New England Patriots touchdown record