Much ado has been made about Rob Gronkowski's postgame dance party following the Patriots heartbreaking (to some) loss to the New York Giants.  This marks the second time in five years the Pats have lost, in dramatic fashion, to the Giants.  While Patriots fans all over the country mourned the teams loss, Gronkowski shook off the disappointment by cutting the rug in shirtless glory.  He clearly was in rare form.  What changes his behavior from a spectacle to a controversy is the fact that Gronk did not play in the Superbowl, as he was sidelined with an ankle injury.  Critics of Gronkowski lay claim that if someone is too injured to play, then they should be too injured to celebrate. 

          Dancing like an idiot only hours after the game ended probably was not Gronkowski's best decision.  It is in poor taste to have that much fun while his teammates were probably too battered and depressed to be able to be that light on their feet.  He also should have realized that, being the arguably the biggest talent on the team, his actions are under scrutiny, and that not participating in the biggest game of his life would only place magnifying glasses closer to the paper.  His behavior would definitely not be taken likely by fans and teammates who visualize his absence whenever they picture what could have been done to win the game.

     That being said, many people are discussing what kind of consequence Gronkowski should incur, and the answer is, nothing.  While what he did may have been objectionable, it is certainly not punishable.  He went to a party that was financed by the New England Patriots, to be held whether they won or lost.  The team hired LMFAO and an open bar, so there was no confusion as to what kind of revelry was to be had. All those in attendance, Gronk included, was expected to drink and exhibit different levels of foolishness.  Gronkowski was merely celebrating a season that would never have happened if it wasn't for his talent.
     Those who pose the cross-examination that Gronkowski was too hurt to play, but not too hurt to dance and drink at the after party, the answer is undeniably YES!  There is a big difference between dancing like an asshole, and being sought out by three top-tier linebackers who are trying to keep you on the ground for 60 minutes straight.  Keep in mind also, that Gronkowski attempted to play, and was sidelined.  He was not asking to be placed on the injured list, and there was no question as to the severity of his injury.  In fact, this Monday, Gronkowski will be having arthroscopic surgery on his ankle.  There is no dispute that he was injured, and there is certainly no question to the loyalty of his team.
      So Rob Gronkowski dances like a douche bag.  He takes his shirt off too much, and listens to bad music.  He is apparently too extroverted for his own good.  But, those who are harshly criticize him and call for his ouster from the team should really take inventory on what he actually did wrong.  While there was some questionable behavior, getting really drunk and dancing like a dick is hardly a punitive offense.