Patriots Rob Gronkowski joins practice in 11-on-11s

Aug 13, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) and tight end

(86) run through drills during a joint practice with the Philadelphia Eagles at the Patriots practice Fields. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

New England Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski took another step forward in his journey back to the football field. He finally joined the rest of his offense in 11-on-11 drills in practice today. He was getting plenty of action on offense as well with Tom Brady throwing a ton of balls in his direction, per Mike Reiss.

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The team has to make sure that he is ready to get on the field by the regular season. He only has a couple of weeks to prep for the regular season. Getting on the field with the rest of the crew for 11-on-11s is a good step forward. He gets the work with the offense and will get into a rhythm with everyone else.

The team will remain cautious in getting him back to the field. He will be needed for the regular season, but the team wants to be sure that he lasts past the regular season and into the post season.