Gronkowski Misses Thursday's Practice, Reportedly Receives Injection For Right Knee
BOSTON (CBS) -- For the second time this week, Rob Gronkowski was not present at the start of Patriots practice as the team gears up for their AFC Divisional round matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Patriots' tight end reportedly missed Thursday's practice session inside Gillette Stadium with a knee injury but will be ready to go for Saturday's playoff game, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported later in the afternoon that Gronkowski received treatment on his knee at a Boston hospital on Thursday, which included an injection. While it sounded like the Patriots were being overly cautious with one of their key playmakers earlier in the day, Schefter's report makes the injury seem a little more serious.
Gronkowski also missed Tuesday's practice and was listed as "limited" with the knee injury on Wednesday's practice report. The Pro Bowler suffered a right knee strain back on November 29 against the Denver Broncos and missed the following week's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Gronkowski returned to play against the Houston Texans on December 13 and was removed from the injury report the following week.
Thursday night the Patriots sent out an updated injury report, noting that in addition to his knee troubles, Gronkowski is also dealing with a back injury.
He led the Patriots with 72 receptions, 1,176 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns during the regular season.
Offensive lineman Tre' Jackson (hand) and linebacker Jonathan Freeny (knee) were also missing from Thursday's practice session.
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