Gronkowski could be back for Week 3

According to the Boston Herald, Gronkowski is doing great in his rehab so far, which means that a possible early return is not out of the question. How early you ask? Well how does week 3 sound? Yes I said week 3... He is even healthy enough to play week one, but NFL rules prohibit that because he has not participated in any training camps this year. There is a catch though, the PUP List.

If Gronkowksi stays on the pup list, he will be legally in-eligable to play for the first six weeks of the season due to being on the list the entire pre-sason and training camp. Therefore, Belichick must make sure that he comes off the list within the next two weeks and participates in some "non-contact" drills during training camp. ESPN had this to report on Gronkowski as well:

Gronkowski's name came up today with an ESPN report saying it was "not realistic" to expect the Pro Bowl tight end to play the first week against the Bills. That was never really in the forecast, but the news is very encouraging. Gronk is closing in on a return. The mid-to-late September projections we had initially are on target. The PUP decision appears much clearer. Barring a setback once he gets back on the playing field in earnest, Week 3 looks about right.

So far, it is clear that the Pats could use their veteran tight end, and having him back for week three could be just the boost that the team needs. The rookies are performing, but they do need help, and Gronkowski could be just the guy who does that..

- Joshua Powers
@jmano33

Via: Boston Herald