NFL: Rob Gronkowski misses training start at the New England Patriots

After the defeat in Super Bowl LII the New England Patriots have to start the preparations for the new season without superstar Rob Gronkowski. The Tight End does not plan to participate in the voluntary Offseason Conditioning Training starting on Monday. This is reported by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Gronkovski’s abstinence follows months of speculation whether the tight end wants to continue his career at all. After the Super Bowl in February, the 28-year-old declared that he would “think very carefully about the future”.

In recent weeks Gronkowski has kept fit at TB12 Sports Therapy Center. Despite speculation, he is expected to play again next season.

Despite numerous injuries, Gronk has been one of the most productive tight ends in the league in recent years. In 2017, he caught 69 passes for 1,084 yards and 8 touchdowns.

Besides Gronkowski, Tom Brady will also skip the offseason program. The quarterback of the Pats is currently on the road with his family in Qatar.