Report: Patriots target Week 1 return for Gronkowski


Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) is on track to be back early in the season. (Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports)

The New England Patriots are targeting a Week 1 return for injured tight end Rob Gronkowski, according to NFL.com.

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. It is possible he could be back by training camp next month, but the Patriots reportedly do not want to push it.

When Gronkowski did play last season, he was productive. In those seven games, he made 39 receptions for 592 yards with four touchdowns.

The Patriots opens the season Sept. 7 at the Miami Dolphins.