Rob Gronkowski's teammates, others throughout NFL react to retirement news

Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski sent a shock wave through the NFL by announcing his retirement after nine seasons in New England, catching the attention of players across the league.

>>MORE: Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski retires after nine seasons in the NFL

Gronkowski was well-known and well-liked by many in the football world, with his teammates showing their appreciation on social media following the future Hall of Famer's farewell from football.

Julian Edelman and Tom Brady both posted their love for the Patriots tight end, calling him a G.O.A.T. as he rides off into the sunset.

The other goat 🐐 #gronk pic.twitter.com/FzCfT38BjR
— Julian Edelman (@Edelman11) March 24, 2019

View this post on Instagram

What an honor and privilege to play with you these past nine years @gronk! You accomplished so much and our team was almost unbeatable when you were on the field! Your fun-loving, inspiring, and positive energy made an impact on everybody you came into contact with! Not just that, but for as great as a player you are, you are a better teammate and person. The NFL was a better place with you in it! But I have no doubt you will be a success in anything you do!!! Love you pal!

A post shared by Tom Brady (@tombrady) on Mar 24, 2019 at 4:01pm PDT

Brady also took to the comments on Gronkowski's Instagram post, sharing some thoughts alongside Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott and Gronkowski's girlfriend, Camille Kostek.

>>MORE: Tom Brady reacts as Rob Gronkowski announces retirement from NFL

Tom Brady, @EzekielElliott and #Gronk’s girlfriend @camillekostek share their love for the #Patriots tight end after he announced his retirement on Instagram @boston25 https://t.co/RftmJ2AV0J pic.twitter.com/p6ouiHai4S
— Austin Bumpus (@AustinBumpus) March 24, 2019

Other players from around the league, both present and former, chimed in with their thoughts on the legendary tight end, with many calling him the best to ever play the position.

Congrats on an incredible career @RobGronkowski. One of the best to ever do it. Best wishes on whatever comes next!
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) March 24, 2019

thank youu for the amazing moments @RobGronkowski 🐐💯
— Le'Veon Bell (@LeVeonBell) March 24, 2019

Gronk one of the most dominant players to put on a helmet. Amazing career.
— Kyle Long (@Ky1eLong) March 24, 2019

@RobGronkowski the utmost pleasure watching you dominate throughout your career. Thank you for paving the way and showing what it takes to be great!! #RESPECT
— Chief David Njoku (@David_Njoku80) March 24, 2019

Damn! Gonna miss watching you @RobGronkowski. Enjoy LAF (Life After Football) because there is a lot of life to be lived! Congrats on a great career! https://t.co/I1g6ljxxBI
— Michael Strahan (@michaelstrahan) March 24, 2019

And, of course, Patriots owner Robert Kraft and head coach Bill Belichick had to give their thoughts on the news, praising Gronkowski's personality and talent throughout his career.