The New England Patriots got a welcomed sight at training camp when Rob Gronkowski walked onto the field and began participating in 11-on-11 drills. A lot has been made about Gronkowski as the season is set to begin in a few short weeks. There have been reports that he is not healthy for Week 1 like originally assumed. He has been seen limping off the field. However, a return to team drills gives hope that the tight end will be back sooner rather than later.
According ESPNBoston.com reporter Mike Reiss, Gronkowski participated in 11-on-11 drills for the first time this training camp, getting plenty of passes thrown his way. Team reporters noted that Gronkowski looked strong and was working his way back to full health. This was a step in the right direction since tearing his ACL during the 2013 season. According RotoWorld.com, Gronkowski intends on playing a full season this year despite reports questioning his availability for Week 1 of the season. While the tight end is still nursing his knee, he has planned on playing in all 16 games no matter what.
No one would blame the tight end for taking his time in returning. His last two seasons have been ruined due to injuries to his back and arm. Gronkowski has undergone multiple surgeries and the ACL was just the latest in the number of setbacks for the All-Pro tight end. His time is running out to get healthy, but Gronkowski remains confident that a return is possible.
Plain and simple, the Patriots need Gronkowski. He is a safety blanket for Brady and a guaranteed red zone threat. Right now, Brandon LaFell and Kenbrell Thompkins are the two offensive players standing out right now while everyone else has yet to impress. Brady would be more than happy to get the tight end back. However, what happens if Gronkowski's plan is not possible?
There is still the option of signing either Dustin Keller or Jermichael Finley before time runs out. Behind Gronkowski, the tight end position leaves a lot to be desired. Signing a veteran certainly would not hurt. Keller is the better option and New England has glanced his way at least once this offseason. If Gronkowski looks unprepared, Keller could get the nod. Finley currently has a $10 million insurance policy to his name after a career-threatening neck injury. Unless he commits to waiving the insurance policy, no team takes any interest in him.
