Rob Gronkowski's new deal worth 6 years, $54 mil

Gronkowski suddenly has become much richer. (Getty)

We told you early Friday morning that Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski reportedly had signed a contract extension, and now, CBSSports.com's Mike Freeman has confirmed that the deal is worth six years and $54 million.

ESPN's Adam Schefter was the first to report the figures.

Originally, Gronkwoski was scheduled to make $540,000 in 2012 and $575,000 in 2013. So, obviously, he's getting quite a raise.

It's also worth noting that, according to CBSSports.com's Jason La Canfora, the extension doesn't replace the final two years of his existing contract. The new deal begins for the 2014 season, though Gronkowski also will receive an $8 million signing bonus. La Canfora also says that Gronkowski has a significant option bonus at the end of the 2015 season that would extend the contract through 2019.

The $54 million figure is actually the max he could make.

But considering Gronkowski, along with New Orleans' Jimmy Graham, is one of the two best at their position in the league, it makes sense that Gronkowski is now the highest-paid tight end in the league.

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