The Facts: Gronkowski was officially placed on injured reserve Saturday, ending any hope that the key cog in the team's offense might make a late playoff cameo. Instead of fighting to get back by the AFC Championship game or the Super Bowl, the team, Gronkowski and his family opted for a long-term solution. Get away, get fully healthy, get back for 2017.
Diehards Line:But according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the finality of Gronk's situation this season did little to quell questions. His surgery Friday, a successful one performed by Dr. Robert Watkins in California, was his third to repair a herniated disc. While some debate his future status with the team -- the Patriots absolutely plan for him to be on the team in 2017 and beyond -- it's clear Gronk's future just got very difficult and very complicated. Gronkowski's injury is not likely to be career-ending. But it might give him back pain and flare-ups through his career. He might have to play in pain. Whatever the case, Gronk will focus on rehab. He potentially could've played in 6-8 weeks at the earliest but wouldn't have been himself for a few months. Gronkowski could even start the preseason on the physically unable to perform list to be on the safe side. But by the time the season rolls around, he should have no issues.