Report: Gronkowski A Game-Time Decision, Has Told Teammates He Plans To Play
BOSTON (CBS) -- Rob Gronkowski sat out the first two games of the season as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury, but the Patriots tight end might be ready to make his season debut at Gillette Stadium Thursday night against the Houston Texans.
The NFL Network's Ian Rapoport tweeted Thursday morning that Gronkowski will be a game-time decision for Thursday night's game against the Texans, adding that there is "a real chance" Gronk ends up playing. Gronkowski has not played this season after injuring his hamstring while catching a pass from Tom Brady during a joint practice with the Chicago Bears.
UPDATE: Gronkowski has reportedly been "telling teammates all week" that he plans to play Thursday night, a source "close to the Patriots' quarterback room" told the Boston Globe's Ben Volin.
The Patriots listed Gronkowski as "Questionable" for Thursday night against Houston, along with five other players. Gronk showed up to Wednesday's Patriots walkthrough in full pads, even though he wasn't allowed to - but he explained why he did it:
"I haven't been in full pads in a while, so I kind of wanted to get used to it. I mean, full pads are different. It weighs more than having nothing on, so it's part of the training process. But, obviously, I wasn't allowed to wear them (laughs), but I just had to take them off, so no big deal. I just like the feel. You just want to get the feel of your shoulder pads when you haven't been in them that much."
If nothing else, Gronk at least feels ready to take the field. His presence would be most welcome for the Patriots offense, especially if rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett is under center.
