New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski faced the media on Tuesday and discussed his workout with quarterback Tom Brady and the addition of veteran wide receiver Eric Decker. Gronkowski, who is busy preparing for their first preseason game against the Washington Redskins on Thursday, said they did a little preparation for that game. “You're in the grind mode, so that really hasn't changed. Today was another camp day, full camp day, so it's good,” said Gronkowski -- via Patriots.com

However, Gronkowski said that he is not sure if he will play against the Redskins, adding that he will just wait for the decision of head coach Bill Belichick.

“I'm always ready to play,” said Gronkowski.

Gronkowski kept the Patriots on the edge of their seats when he contemplated retirement after last season’s Super Bowl loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. However, Gronkowski decided to return for his ninth NFL season. Gronkowski said that the Patriots are still grinding in training camp to better prepare for next season, adding that the atmosphere is competitive, especially with several players eyeing spots on the 53-man roster.

Gronkowski works out with Brady

Gronkowski also revealed that he worked out one-on-one with Brady late in Tuesday’s practice. After the practice, Gronkowski admitted that he had a hard time catching his breath while trying to catch passes from Brady.

However, Gronkowski said that it is part of his preparation for the coming regular season, which is one month away.

According to Gronkowski, his workout with Brady involves running routes and getting their timing fine-tuned. “I would say that it's just probably more of a conditioning type of route. Get some extras in while we're all sweaty, out of breath, just to push your body to the next limit in some weather like this, for sure,” said Gronkowski.

Gronkowski discusses Eric Decker

The Patriots recently signed Decker to a one-year contract to add more excitement to their wide receiver competition. The signing came one day before the Patriots released oft-injured wide receiver Malcolm Mitchell. Based on his initial observation on Decker, Gronkowski said the veteran wideout is a good player and it’s good to see him working with his teammates.

Gronkowski admitted he didn’t have the chance to talk to Decker during practices, but said that it is great to have a veteran presence on the field and in the locker room. “Great guy to have around, great guy to have in the locker room. I've watched him play football before and he's got talent,” said Gronkowski.