On top of adjusting to a new playbook and getting to know his new teammates, Rob Gronkowski also has to get used to the Florida heat.
Speaking to reporters Monday, Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians said Gronkowski is in "New England shape."
"He's probably in New England shape right now. He's not in Florida shape. The heat's kicking his ass pretty good," Arians said. "It's different, man. When you train in New England and come down here, it's different. We laughed about it out there today. I don't think he's ever sweat that much in his life.
"So it takes a little time to get into the Florida shape, but as far as playing a game he's more than ready right now."
Gronkowski is in a tight ends room that includes O.J. Howard and Arians said having him along with Tom Brady in the mix has given him some confidence.
"He's come in and he's got a great handle on it right now," Arians said of Howard. "Rob's helped him confidence wise, seeing how good he is and telling him how good he is. When you got a guy like Gronkowski and (Tom) Brady telling you you're good, you're probably pretty good. I think that's helped, but O.J. is playing really, really well right now."
The former Patriots tight end came out of retirement this offseason and was traded to Tampa Bay from New England.
