Patriots' Rob Gronkowski shaves head in support of cancer patients

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski shed his locks on Sunday much like he does defenders, and all for a good cause.

Gronkowski had his head shaved as part of One Mission's Buzz Off For Kids With Cancer event at Gillette Stadium. One Mission gives children and their families support as they tackle the difficult task of battling cancer.

"It's always important to see what these kids are going through, what they're battling through," the 29-year-old Gronkowski said, per CBS Boston. "Just to be the guy leading by example out here with kids, to support the kids what they're going through, to come out too and buzz their head to support their friends. It's just an unbelievable cause."

Gronkowski, who posted the pictures on Instagram, has been a regular at the event for each of the last seven years.

"I'll be so much faster now! Thanks @buzzforkids for the fresh new summer cut!. Great day with the kids," Gronkowski posted on Instagram.

As for minicamp, Gronkowski confirmed that he will show up -- complete with a new look -- after missing all of the voluntary spring workout sessions to this point.

"I'll be there this week. I'll be full go," Gronkowski told the Boston Herald. "So I'm looking forward to it. I can't wait to get back to it, get back to work. I'm excited. I'm going to be going there with my new buzz hair cut. Can't wait to get going again."

Gronkowski initially raised doubts about his playing future mere moments after Super Bowl LII, with rumors circulating of a career in acting, professional wrestling and even dirt-bike riding for the affable star.

He posted 69 catches for 1,084 yards with eight touchdowns over 14 games in 2017.

A second-round draft pick of the Patriots in 2010, Gronkowski has been a touchdown machine since joining the team, reaching double digits in five of his eight seasons, including a career-high 17 in 2011.

Gronkowski has surpassed 1,000 yards four times and has 474 receptions for 7,179 yards in 102 career games (89 starts).

His 76 touchdown catches rank third on the all-time list among tight ends, behind Antonio Gates (114) and Tony Gonzalez (111).