Although Gronkowski practiced with the Pats on Friday and says he will play, he is still listed as questionable on the injury report and frankly, so is the expected impact he’ll have on the field come Sunday.
There’s no doubt that Gronk had one of the best seasons for a tight end in NFL history in 2011, practically rewriting the book on how to play the position in the process. His 17 touchdown receptions led the league and were good for fifth on the single-season record list. He and fellow tight end Aaron Hernandez combined for 169 receptions 24 touchdowns and 2,237 receiving yards. Dubbed “The Boston TE Party,” the two provided depth in New England’s receiving core and even more weapons for quarterback Tom Brady.
Aside from his talents as a receiver, Gronkowski’s physicality is a large part of his game, which makes the 6-foot-6, 265-pound tight end an intimidating presence on the field. When he’s not being thrown to, he’s providing extra blocks for Patriots running backs, a task that does not go unnoticed.
Gronkowski has become somewhat of a cult hero among Patriots fans, and his “Yo Soy Fiesta” catchphrase could soon be used in New England as frequently as “Roll Tide” is down South.
So as gametime in Indianapolis quickly approaches, will Gronkowski be back in his usual dominating form, or will his high ankle sprain put a damper on the Pats’ gameplan?
Well, if the Pats win, Curt Schilling could now have some competition in Boston in the “Best Championship Performance on an Injured Ankle” category.
How big of an impact will Rob Gronkowski have for the Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI?
