Rob Gronkowksi status revealed for New England return vs Patriots

The storylines for Sunday’s game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New England Patriots have been focused around Tom Brady’s return. However, another Patriots legend is on his way back — Rob Gronkowski.

Unfortunately, we won’t be seeing the former Patriots tight end suit up against New England. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Gronkowksi is officially out for tomorrow’s game.

“Bucs’ TE Rob Gronkowski is not making the trip to New England today due to his rib injury and he will be out Sunday night vs. New England, per sources,” tweeted Schefter.

After making history for years in New England, Gronkowski won’t serve as Brady’s security blanket in his return to Foxboro. While the game didn’t need anymore juice, it’s unfortunate Gronkowski won’t be on the field.

Gronkowski’s Patriots Career

In New England, Gronkowski blossomed into one of the greatest tight ends the NFL has ever seen. Over nine fruitful seasons, he was one of the most dangerous weapons in the league — catching 79 touchdowns over his time there.

Additionally, all the Patriots did while Gronkowski was catching touchdowns from Brady was win. The duo helped bring three Super Bowl victories to the franchise.

Gronkowski and Brady have carried their synergy from New England south to Tampa Bay. In their first season reunited, they led the Buccaneers to their second Super Bowl victory in franchise history.

Prior to his injury, Gronkowski was enjoying a roaring start to his 2021 campaign. In just three games, the tight end has already caught four touchdown passes from Brady.

As the duo marked tomorrow as their return to New England, it’ll be solely on Brady to defeat their former team. With Gronkowski not even making the trip back to Gillette Stadium, the entire focus will be on Brady.

However, it’s never affected Tom Brady before — don’t expect it to slow him down now.