The Sports Xchange

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski was paid $4 million of his $10 million bonus due in 2016 as part of a six-year, $54 million deal signed three years ago.

Gronkowski’s contract was split into two parts. The final four years of the deal are triggered when the bonus – initially a $10 million payment – is received by the 26-year-old All-Pro. Dividing the bonus into two payments rewards Gronkowski and softens the cap charge, depending on when the Patriots opt to pay the remaining $6 million.

He is now signed through 2019.

Gronkowski has 54 touchdown receptions in 65 games, bouncing back last season from multiple surgeries to anchor the receiving corps.

Gronkowski said in his recent book that he has not spent any of his NFL bonus or salary income, relying on endorsement payments instead.