New England Patriots fans and fantasy football owners alike are all rejoicing at this bit of news. Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski, who has missed most of the past two seasons with various injuries, has declared himself ready and says he will play on Sunday in the season opener against the Miami Dolphins.
Gronk says he is playing Sunday against the Dolphins.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) September 1, 2014
Rob Gronkowski on Week 1: "I'm ready to go. I'll be playing."
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) September 1, 2014
It isn’t all too surprising, the signs in camp pointed towards Gronkowski being ready. How much of an impact he will have and how much he will be used are different stories though. The Patriots could look to ease Gronkowski back into action given his history with injuries over the past two seasons.
No sense in rushing him back and giving him a huge workload right off the bat. Gronkowski sounds like he doesn’t think that will the case though.
Gronk answered some follow-up questions about playing and continued to confirm he is playing. "It feels good."
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) September 1, 2014
Gronk: "I feel like I can be myself out there. ... I'll be playing like I always play."
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) September 1, 2014