Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) has faught injuries the last two seasons. (Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports)
Tight end Rob Gronkowski gave himself the green light Monday to be in the lineup for the New England Patriots when they visit the Miami Dolphins for the regular-season opener this week.
But he’ll need more than medical clearance to be a full go for Week 1.
“I’m glad Rob is optimistic,” said coach Bill Belichick. “We’ll go through the week of practice, take a look at everything.”
Gronkowski said Monday that he was “ready to go” after missing all of preseason and practicing only on a limited basis during training camp. He was recovering from torn anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments in his right knee.
“In the end, we’re going to make the decision that’s best for the football team,” Belichick said Tuesday.
The Patriots acquired tight end Tim Wright from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a trade that sent Pro Bowl offensive guard Logan Mankins to Florida.
In one game against the Dolphins last season, Gronkowski had two catches for 27 yards. He missed the Dec. 15 game at Miami.
Gronkowski has been slowed by injuries that past two seasons. He broke a collarbone in 2012 and tore an ACL in 2013. The injuries limited him to 17 games during that span.
Gronkowski played seven games last season before the ACL tear.
When Gronkowski did play last season, he was productive. In those seven games, he made 39 receptions for 592 yards with four touchdowns.
Fantasy Update: Keep an eye on Gronkowski’s status. If he’s a go, get he’s a must-start in any league.
