But when the Patriots jogged out on the practice field for a walkthrough in shorts and sweats, Gronkowski did so in full pads and helmet on Tuesday. Improving every single day, basically day-by-day right now, taking it one day at a time.
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“We’ll see”, he said. His presence would also make life easier for rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who is preparing to make his first career National Football League start. In his absence, the team has leaned on tight end Martellus Bennett, who has played in 99 percent of the offensive snaps through two weeks.
Week 3 could mark the return of the NFL’s best tight end if Rob Gronkowski suits up vs. the Texans.
Whether Rob Gronkowski plays Thursday or not, it seems apparent that he is more than ready mentally to return to the field. “So I just tried to show them that I could do everything whether it’s pass, block, pick up blitzes, you know, catch the ball, outside inside”. Especially with quarterback Tom Brady out, and now with fill-in starter Jimmy Garoppolo injured, the return of their All-Pro tight end would be a boon for the Patriots offense. He admitted that it wasn’t a mistake and that he just wanted to get accustomed to having full pads on.
“I havent been in full pads for a while”, Gronkowski said with a laugh. Really no big deal. “You want to get the feel of your shoulder pads when you haven’t been in them that much”.
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The Patriots have won twice without Gronkowski and have 10 days until they’ll be on the field for Week Four, which may influence their decision about when Gronkowski will be allowed to wear pads for a longer stretch. I just like to feel it.
