Rob Gronkowski Injury: Patriots Down But Not Out

The Patriots have been hit with the injury bug this season. Losing defensive captains Vince Wilfork and Jerod Mayo already this season, and they lost another star again on Sunday. In a remarkable come-from-behind 27-26 victory over the Browns, the Patriots lost their second most valuable player on a hit to the knee from Browns’ TJ Ward during the third quarter.

Rob Gronkowski tore both his ACL and MCL on the play and he will be lost for the season. Gronkowski, missed the Patriots first six games, but still managed to haul in 37 passes for 560 yards and four touchdowns.

The All-Pro tight end is arguably the best at his position in the National Football League and he will be dearly missed. Many people will immediately rule out the Patriots after losing Gronk, but that’s exactly what they want you to do. Tom Brady said on Monday that the Patriots will no doubt have to change their “formula” on offense in order to move on without Gronkowski. Also, you can never count out Tom Brady especially while Bill Belichick is still coaching on the New England sideline.

The Patriots will have to look at other options at Tight End with Gronkowski out for the season, such as Michael Hoomanawanui, Matthew Mulligan, recently re-signed D.J. Williams and even big Fullback James Develin who has taken snaps at Tight End. No doubt, Rob Gronkowski leaves big shoes to fill, but if the Patriots can play stronger defensively and establish a more consistent running game, then they can remain legitimate Super Bowl contenders.

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Photo credit: (Jared Wickerham/Getty Images) 

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