Rob Gronkowski Reportedly Won't Play Versus Titans
BOSTON (CBS) – Rob Gronkowski reportedly isn't expected to play Sunday versus the Tennessee Titans, though the Patriots appear to be taking a big picture approach with their star tight end.
Gronkowski is officially listed as questionable on the team's injury report. He's dealing with back and ankle injuries.
The Boston Herald first reported on Saturday that Gronkowski is likely out versus Tennessee. According to the report, the Patriots are hoping another week off combined with the team's Week 11 bye week will help the tight end heal and get his body right for a playoff run.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport had a similar report later in the day.
#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
Mike Reiss of ESPN added to the report Saturday afternoon, saying that Gronkowski did travel with the team to Tennessee.
As the Patriots depart for Tennessee, TE Rob Gronkowski has joined teammates as part of the traveling party, per a source. He is questionable. Expectation has been that Gronkowski won't play, but nothing official until Bill Belichick makes the final call 90 minutes before kickoff
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) November 10, 2018
The Patriots played without Gronkowski in Week 7 against the Bears and Week 9 versus the Packers. In seven games this season, Gronkowski has just one touchdown and is averaging 64 yards receiving per game.