Rob Gronkowski didn't mince words when asked about a report that he would rather retire than be traded to the Detroit Lions.

Following the New England Patriots' 26-10 loss in Detroit, Gronkowski confirmed an ESPN report in which sources said he threatened to retire instead of being traded to Detroit in the offseason.

"Yeah, it happened," Gronkowski said. "(Tom) Brady's my quarterback. That's all. I'm not going anywhere without Brady."

Reports surfaced in June that the two teams were talking about a trade. However, those trade talks broke down.

Since Bill Belichick became coach of the Patriots in 2000, current Detroit Lions general manager Bob Quinn had worked in a variety of roles in New England. He was the director of pro scouting before being hired by the Lions as GM in 2016. Since then, Quinn and the Patriots have consummated six trades. First-year Lions head coach Matt Patricia also is familiar with Gronkowski from his six seasons as the Patriots' defensive coordinator.

Gronkowski has 13 receptions for 189 yards and a touchdown this season.

Contributing: The Associated Press.

Follow USA TODAY Sports' Jim Reineking on Twitter @jimreineking.

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