The New England Patriots are taking the safe approach with Rob Gronkowski.
The tight end will not play Sunday, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com, as he continues to battle back and ankle issues. The hope is that sitting out against the Tennessee Titans then getting the bye week to rest will allow him to be rested and ready for Week 12 and the stretch run.
#Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (back, ankle) won’t play Sunday vs #Titans, source said. The team is taking the smart, cautious approach by making sure he’s back after the bye at full strength to close the season strong.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 10, 2018
Things appeared to have been trending this way. His back keeps acting up, and his ankle has been a problem all season. This will be the third game in the last four he’s sat out, and the Patriots are well-positioned enough that they don’t need to push him too hard and can prioritize his health.
