New England Patriots Roster Recap: Tight Ends

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Oct 16, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) spikes the ball after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports /

Rob Gronkowski, age 28

If history is any indication, Rob Gronkowski is due for a big year in 2017.

Gronk posted 25 catches, 540 yards, and three touchdowns last season until a back injury cut his 2016 season short. The Patriots went on to win eight straight games during his absence, finishing the season undefeated.

Three years ago, a knee injury cost Gronkowski the remainder of his 2013 season. The following year he rebounded with 82 receptions, 1,124 yards, twelve touchdowns, and the AP Comeback Player of the Year Award.

Given his injury history, it would be a tremendous accomplishment if Gronkowski returned to his All-Pro level in 2017. Gronk’s durability has often been the weakness of his game. In December, USA Today’s Mike Coppinger wrote:

"“Injuries have long been an issue for the seventh-year veteran. He underwent surgery to repair his ankle following Super Bowl XLVI in 2012. He broke his forearm the following season and needed surgery, and then required another operation after he re-injured it. And in 2013, he underwent a third procedure, this time to clean an infection in the forearm. A fourth surgery on his arm was performed, and he also had subsequent back surgery. Gronkowski has also had reconstructive knee surgery. Friday’s procedure will be the eighth known surgical operation of his NFL career.”"

Gronkowski seems to be in good spirits as the season inches closer. Fans should expect to see him return to starting duties once he’s fully healthy.

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