Report: Rob Gronkowski Missed Patriots Practice After Family Friend Died

The reason for Rob Gronkowski’s absence from practice Friday has been revealed.

A family friend of the New England Patriots tight end recently died, which is why Gronkowski wasn’t on the practice field, according to FOX Sports 910’s Mike Jurecki.

Initial reports out of Foxboro, Mass., said the tight end’s absence was due to a “personal issue.” Gronkwoski is listed as probable for the Patriots’ Week 15 matchup with the Tennessee Titans on Sunday.

Thumbnail photo via Troy Taormina/USA TODAY Sports Images