Rob Gronkowski could miss one more week at the most

Depending on how you look at it, this could be good news.

Rob Gronkowski's status has been up in the air since Week 1, as he nurses an oft-repaired forearm as well as recovers from back surgery. Apparently, it's been the forearm he injured in November of last year that is still the problem. Reports from WEEI's Mike Petraglia this week indicated that the surgery performed last season was ultimately unnecessary and could've contributed to the problems Gronk is now facing.

With every precaution in mind, Gronk is sitting out until the arm completely heals. Famed surgeon James Andrews was brought in as a third party this week to make the final call on Gronk's availability. Gronk won't play today, and he might not play next week either.

ProFootballTalk:
This week, Gronkowski had the most optimism yet. But Dr. James Andrews, who recently joined the medical effort, wasn’t comfortable clearing Gronkowski to play.

So when will Gronkowski play? Per a source with knowledge of the situation, Gronkowski’s absence likely will be one more game, at most.

So, how could this possibly be good news? The "at most" part. Some were overreacting and saying that Gronk could miss the rest of the season. Personally, I'd rather him stay out as long as he needs to fully recover. You do not want to rush him back before he's either physically or mentally ready. The Patriots have gone 4-1 without Gronk, they should be able to survive another two weeks.

Bill Belichick always says that the season doesn't truly begin until after Thanksgiving. That's when it will be most important to have the star tight end healthy.