NFL teams
Mike Reiss, ESPN Staff Writer 8y

Rob Gronkowski returns to Pats practice nine days after early exit

NFL, New England Patriots

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski returned to practice Wednesday for the first time since pulling up in practice Aug. 15.

Gronkowski was present for stretching and warm-ups. He mostly watched from the sideline as the Patriots continue to prepare for Friday's preseason game at the Carolina Panthers.

Gronkowski took himself out of practice Aug. 15, when the Patriots were practicing against the Chicago Bears and he attempted to catch a pass from quarterback Tom Brady in seven-on-seven drills along the sideline. He walked up and down the sideline after the play and soon after was met by head athletic trainer Jim Whalen.

Gronkowski then went to the lower practice field, where those who are rehabilitating injuries work. He spent about 10 minutes there, and then he retreated to the locker room.

Gronkowski hasn't played in the preseason since 2012. His return to practice Wednesday isn't likely to change that.

^ Back to Top ^