New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) is tackled by Indianapolis Colts inside linebacker Jerrell Freeman (50) during the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
In order for him to play this week, New England Patriots star TE Rob Gronkowski will need to be cleared by noted Dr. James Andrews, as Gronkowski no longer trusts team doctor Thomas Gill. Nobody can blame him either, and Gill’s track record is pretty sketchy. He most notably mis-managed Jacoby Ellsbury’s injury, and that wasn’t the only mishap of his while with the Boston Red Sox. There was also a grievance filed on Gill for not acting in favor of Jonathan Fanene, and he has drawn the ire of Boston sports fans on several occasions. A third party was the best option for both Rob Gronkowski and the Patriots, but Andrews still hasn’t cleared Gronk.
A source told Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio that Gronkowski has not been cleared, and that there is “less optimism” that Gronkowski will be able to play. This comes as no surprise, since the Patriots have concerns about Gronk’s long-term health, and the Patriots are not going to rush Gronk back from the arm injury for a third time. It’s much better to have him fully healthy in the long run, and that’s why I doubt he plays this week against the New Orleans Saints. I know I said last week that Gronk would most likely play this week, but this new information makes me believe that Gronkowski will be out and that it’s all for the best.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported just about the same thing as what Florio report. The Patriots have “less optimism” that Rob Gronkowski will play than they did to begin the week, because Andrews still hasn’t cleared him. Definitely don’t rule Gronk out yet, but it looks like he is unlikely to play. That’s going to make things very difficult for the New England Patriots, as they look to keep up with the Saints offense.
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