After the game against the Seattle Seahawks, New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski called a hit by safety Earl Thomas Jr. the hardest he has ever been tackled. While he was able to finished the game with what was later reported a chest injury resulting from the hit, he was unable to travel to San Francisco for last Sunday’s game.
Apparently, this will not be the only game the NFL’s best tight end will miss because of the injury. According to ESPN’s Dianna Russini, Gronkowski is not expected to play on Sunday against the New York Jets either:
Rob Gronkowski is not expected to play this Sunday against the Jets. The Patriots staff is prepping the offense without him per sources
The Patriots return to practice today but even if the 27-year old joins the rest of the team, playing it safe is a smart move by New England. After all, Gronkowski is an integral member of the Patriots’ offensive attack and its most talented skill position player.
Without Gronkowski, Martellus Bennett will be the number one option at tight end again.