New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski missed practice on Thursday as he remains in the concussion protocol, but there is still optimism that he will be cleared in time for the Super Bowl.
ESPN’s Dianna Russini was in the Patriots locker room following Thursday’s practice, and she reported that the “overall feel” is that Gronkowski is going to be available against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Patriots in great moods today in the locker room….overall feel is Rob Gronkowski will be in the lineup for the Super Bowl.
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) January 25, 2018
The extra week off before the Super Bowl works to Gronkowski’s advantage. Players often miss the game after they are diagnosed with a concussion, but a much higher percentage return two weeks later. Even if Gronk doesn’t technically clear the protocol this week, he still has plenty of time.
Gronkowski took a vicious hit from Jacksonville Jaguars safety Barry Church in the first half of the AFC Championship Game, but the Patriots pulled off a comeback win despite playing most of the game without him.
