Rob Gronkowski leaves Patriots practice early with apparent injury

New England Patriots star tight end Rob Gronkowski had to leave practice early, when he pulled up during a 7-on-7 drill.

The New England Patriots will already be without star quarterback Tom Brady for the first four games of the NFL regular season. On Monday, the organization held their breathe, as another offensive superstar had to be removed from practice.

Pro Bowl tight end Rob Gronkowski was in the middle of a 7-on-7 drill during a joint practice with the Chicago Bears when he pulled up. Instead of finishing up the play, Gronkowski walked right over to the trainer, who then escorted him to the locker room. He was able to walk off on his own power, but appeared to be favoring his left side.

He did not return.

If the Patriots lose Gronkowski, it would be devastating for them. Their quarterback for the first four games will be Jimmy Garoppolo, who has never made a start in an NFL regular season game. He is going to need players like Gronkowski to help him transition to the speed of the NFL, so the Patriots better hope he is OK.

Last season, Gronkowski racked up 1,176 yards, while scoring 11 touchdowns. He has had a history of injuries, as he has not played a full season since 2011. He has been bitten by the injury bug a lot throughout his career, including injuries to his elbow, back, and knee.

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The New England Patriots are coming off of another great season with Tom Brady at the helm, going 12-4 while winning the AFC East. They will be looking to get back to the Super Bowl, after losing to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game. Brady and company won the Super Bowl the season before, defeating the Seattle Seahawks 28-24.

If they want to return to the promised land, they are going to need Gronkowski.