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Patriots Gridiron News: Rob Gronkowski to Participate in Offseason Programs

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

Nov 13, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) pulls in a pass while defended by Seattle Seahawks cornerback DeShawn Shead (35) during the fourth quarter at Gillette Stadium. The Seattle Seahawks won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) pulls in a pass while defended by Seattle Seahawks cornerback DeShawn Shead (35) during the fourth quarter at Gillette Stadium. The Seattle Seahawks won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /
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New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski should be ready for the team’s offseason programs following the 2016 season. 

The news looks good for New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski.  As reported by CSNNE’s Tom Curran, Gronkowski, who underwent season-ending back surgery on Dec. 2, is on pace to be ready in time to participate in the Patriots’ offseason programs.

Gronkowski was placed on the injured reserve list shortly after the surgery.  He finished the season with 540 yards and three touchdown receptions in eight games.  His last touchdown reception set the team’s franchise record for all-time receiving touchdowns.

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With Martellus Bennett in the mix, along with a more versatile offense, the Patriots have been fine without Gronkowski.  The team finished the season at14-2 and has locked up the No. 1 seed in the AFC.

Overall, the news is encouraging for both Gronkowski and the organization since there were rumblings that the back injury could be career-ending.  Gronkowski and the team quickly putout fire to those rumors or even the possibility.

In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, the 27-year-old tight end reported that he still watches his team every week and supports his teammates.

"“I miss my teammates, my boys,” Gronkowski said.  “I love them, and I support them every week.”"

Related Story: No Trade or Retirement for Rob Gronkowski

Road warriors:  With Sunday’s 35-14 win over the Dolphins in Miami, the Patriots became the ninth team since 1972 to go undefeated on the road during the regular season.  They last accomplished the feat during the 2007 season in which they went 16-0 overall.  With locking up home field advantage throughout the playoffs, the Patriots won’t have to travel to any other stadium until they reach Super Bowl LI.

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