In sports, it’s a conundrum nearly as old as the ball itself.
When staring down a sure-thing playoff slot but with more of the regular season to go, do you rest your players or keep them on the field? Unfortunately, with the Patriots and tight end Rob Gronkowski, it’s a little more complicated than even that.
Gronkowski has missed every game since Week 11 when he fractured his forearm. Although Gronk has returned to practice in a limited role, he’s still waiting for the doctor’s all-clear before he returns to the football field on Sundays. But what if he does get that go-ahead between now and this Sunday’s matchup with the Dolphins?
Since Gronkowski has missed so much time, it does figure that the Patriots might want to give him involved in some live plays — since he’s such a central figure in Josh McDaniels‘ offense — before they begin to really count in the playoffs. No matter how well you practice, it’s never the same thing as game situations.
So, assuming that Gronk gets the doctor’s approval, what should the Patriots do with their star tight end this Sunday?
