New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski left Sunday’s game against the New York Jets with a back injury, and early reports have been positive. That said, anything involving Gronk’s back is cause for concern given his long history of back-related issues.
Jason Cole of Bleacher Report reiterated on Monday that Gronkowski’s back injury is considered “not serious.” However, it would not be a surprise if No. 87 missed Week 13.
“A source said it is not serious,” Cole reported. “But since Gronkowski entered the league with concerns about his back and neck, it appears the Patriots will be careful with him at this point.”
Gronkowski was seen walking gingerly after Sunday’s game, and the injury was obviously serious enough that he was unable to return when the Patriots clearly could have used him.
Perhaps Gronk will be fine, but let’s not forget he slipped to the second round of the 2010 draft because he missed his entire final year at Arizona after undergoing back surgery. Then in 2013, Gronkowski needed another back surgery during the offseason.
Gronkowski has dealt with various injuries throughout his career, and he is just getting over a punctured lung he suffered on this vicious hit from Seattle Seahawks safety Earl Thomas. With a home game upcoming against the lowly Los Angeles Rams, Gronkowski will probably sit.
