Patriots nation is holding its breath as Rob Gronkowski’s long road to recovery continues.
The star tight end, who has already undergone three surgeries since breaking his forearm last November and re-injuring it during the AFC Divisional playoffs, will need to undergo a fourth procedure as he continues to recover.
According to a report from the Boston Herald, Gronkowski will need the surgery in order to replace the metal plate that is currently securing the bone and keeping it in place.
While Gronkowski has been partaking in the team’s offseason program, his status still remains in question as doctors will test the area around his forearm for infection. Should the tissue have again become infected, similar to what happened earlier this year, Gronkowski will need a fifth operation.
There is an 11-week recovery period following the operation, so despite the fact that Gronkowski is on track to be ready for the preseason, his status remains very much uncertain.
Gronkowski’s commitment to his recovery this offseason has drawn criticism after video surfaced of him dancing on stage and suplexing a friend of his despite his forearm being in a protective sleeve. Gronkowski was also allegedly seen on Kansas State’s campus, where his brother Glenn plays football, partying last month.
In three seasons with the Patriots, Gronkowski has been one of the team’s most effective offensive weapons. In 43 regular-season games, Gronkowski has 187 catches for 2,663 yards and 38 touchdowns.