Madden NFL 17 to feature Rob Gronkowski

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski landed on the cover of Madden NFL 17.

Gronkowski was announced Thursday as the choice for the popular video game produced by EA Sports. He will be displayed spiking the ball.

Gronkowski, a popular personality on the off the field, follows New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. on the cover. Last year, Gronkowski finished second behind Beckham in the selection process.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton was considered a possible choice for the cover this year. He was the runner-up to Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman two years ago.

Gronkowski, known for his partying during the offseason, will also be featured on the cover of an upcoming GQ magazine with model Hailey Clauson.

Last season, Gronkowski finished with 72 receptions for 1,176 yards and 11 touchdowns as the Patriots fell one game short of reaching the Super Bowl. He is the first tight end to make the cover.

Other players who have appeared on the cover include Michael Vick, Brett Favre, Barry Sanders and Beckham.

Madden NFL 17 will be available for Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 on Aug. 23.