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Patriots Game Day: Rob Gronkowski a Game-Time Decision Vs. Texans

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

Aug 11, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) during pregame warmups prior to a game against the New Orleans Saints at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 11, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) during pregame warmups prior to a game against the New Orleans Saints at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski has been listed as a game-time decision for Thursday night’s matchup versus the Houston Texans.

Fans attending Thursday night’s game at Gillette Stadium could very well see the debut of tight end Rob Gronkowski.  According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, the All-Pro tight end will be a game-time decision in the Week 3 matchup between the New England Patriots and Houston Texans.

Furthermore, Gronkowski has reportedly told teammates that he plans to make his season debut Thursday night.  If he does, his presence will be a welcome sight for offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.  The Patriots play caller will attempt to put together an effective game plan led by third-string quarterback Jacoby Brisett.

The big pass-catching tight end missed the first two games of the season due to a nagging hamstring injury endured during training camp.  While still limited at practice, Gronkowski was speculated to make a return Week 4 or Week 5.  So when the Patriots debut their new NFL “Color Rush” uniforms Thursday night, Rob Gronkowski could be decked out in one of them.

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Gronkowski’s impact against the Texans

The New England Patriots are not expected to hold back with Brissett under center.  Adding another element to the passing game like Gronkowski could make life miserable for Houston’s linebackers and safeties.  Although Gronk may not be 100 percent and could be a little rusty, his presence should open up things for Martellus Bennett, Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola and Chris Hogan.

If the team decide to do it on the ground, both Bennett and Gronkowski can be used as run blockers as well.  If the Patriots are effective on the ground, McDaniels could open things up down the field through play action.  The only question would be whether Brissett could get the ball down field or has enough line protection to do so.

Last season, Rob Gronkowski played in 15 games.  The new team captain hauled in 72 receptions for 1176 yards and 11 touchdowns.

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