Mar 8, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski watches a game between the Boston Celtics and the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski is expected to make his season debut on Sunday against the New Orleans Saints, but there are apparently still some concerns about his surgically repaired arm.

Gronkowski has delayed his return to action as he waited for the injury to fully heal.

Now, with his return just around the corner, WEEI.com reports there are still some serious concerns about Gronkowski’s arm moving forward.

From WEEI.com:

One source with knowledge of the initial forearm surgery told WEEI.com Thursday night that there is “serious concern” about the integrity of the bone where the implement was placed and the surrounding nerves. The source indicated that if the bone had healed on its own without an implement, there might have been no infection. However, there now are concerns that an abscess developed, causing infection and likely weakening the bone. This prompted three more surgeries in the offseason on the forearm, separate from the procedure on his back.

Gronkowski’s family and representatives were made aware of the issues in the arm and advised the tight end to hold off on returning to action until it could be determined that the bone in his right arm had fully healed.

Gronkowski has yet to be cleared by doctors, so the team’s concerns are still there.

We will get an idea of how Gronkowski can handle the full contact this week if he plays and everyone will be hoping that his arm holds up.