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

Gronkowki shared his bevy of strong takes, revealed some newly-unearthed secrets about Bill Belichick's strangest rules, and revealed a new technology he is using to heal his body from the wear and tear of football in an interview with OutKick.Rob Gronkowski of the New England Patriots argues with field judge Mike Weatherford after receiving a penalty for his late hit on Tre'Davious White of the Buffalo Bills during NFL game action at New Era Field on Dec.3, 2017, in Buffalo, New York.

(Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)Gronkowski believes officials should face consequences just as the players and coaches whose games they help decide do."So yeah, I think, you know, it would be fair and square to, you know, put the referees on a pedestal as well and — and have punishment just like any coach or any NFL player can be punished just like that," Gronkowski said.CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGEAsked whether the NFL needs more accountability for officials, Gronkowski pointed to how quickly a player’s fortunes can change."I think so, actually, because players are accountable.Players can be cut the very next day and you’ve seen players cut," he continued.Gronkowski’s comments followed Tom Brady’s criticism of several calls during the Detroit Lions’ 20-17 win over the Green Bay Packers during Sunday's NFL on FOX broadcast.

Brady and FOX rules analyst Dean Blandino disputed multiple decisions, including roughing-the-passer penalties and an intentional grounding call.Gronkowski agreed with his former quarterback’s broader concerns."I don’t think the referees are doing that great of a job.I think they can definitely improve," he said.He identified pass interference and roughing-the-passer calls as areas that need improvement before the postseason, warning that incorrect flags could determine games."We want it to be fair and square.

That’s what fans want to see," he said."Yes, you call it when it’s appropriate, but when it’s not appropriate, you kn...