The Facts: It’s unclear when Gronkowski will be able to play. But it is clear when he’ll have his next surgical procedure. Via multiple reports, which PFT has confirmed, Gronkowski will undergo back surgery on Tuesday. Dr. Robert Watkins will conduct the operation.

Diehards Line:Agent Drew Rosenhaus, previously told WQAM radio in Miami that the back surgery is minor and that the recovery process won’t extend the timetable already created by his most recent forearm procedure. We'll see. As NBC/Rotoworld's Evan Silva notes, Gronkowski's recovery time is supposed to be 12 weeks (or 84 days). That timetable would have him back Sept 10. The Patriots open the regular season on Sept. 8 at Buffalo. ... Stay tuned. More undoubtedly to come.