The curious case of Rob Gronkowski continues in Week 3.
Gronkowski has been practicing for a few weeks now after missing the entire preseason while recovering from offseason back surgery, and it seems he’s awful close to a return. In fact, Gronkowski is healthy enough to play, but the Patriots are still leaning toward holding the star tight end out yet again this week, according to The Boston Globe.
The Patriots are taking a cautious approach with Gronkowski, especially after an early return led to a second forearm injury last season. The team wants to get Gronkowski more practices and ensure that he’s fully healthy before he plays in a game, according to the report, which is why his status, while reportedly 50/50, is still in doubt for Sunday’s game against the Buccaneers.
Tom Brady is likely salivating at even the idea of Gronkowski returning to the field. The Patriots’ young receivers have struggled to pick up the offense so far, and the results have been evident as Brady and the passing game have reached unexpected lows through the first two weeks of the season. Even so, Bill Belichick seems to be playing it safe with Gronkowski, likely ensuring that the All-Pro tight end will be available for the Patriots come the postseason.
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