Rob Gronkowski leaves Texas unharmed

Photo Courtesy of David Phillip

My heart stopped when Rob Gronkowski came up lame after being tackled from behind during Sunday's too-close-for-comfort win over the Texans. During the play, it appeared that Gronkowski rolled his ankle as a defender went low to try and bring the 270 pound tight end to the ground. The play brought back flashes of Bernard Pollard's tackle of Gronkowski during the AFC championship game two years ago. But breathe easy everyone because it doesn't appear that this injury is anywhere near as serious.

Per Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com:

Tight end Rob Gronkowski came up limping after being tackled, his ankle apparently twisted under a defender. Per a source with knowledge of the situation, Gronkowski is fine.

That is tremendous news for Patriots fans. Gronk has completely changed New England's offense since returning to the field. For a team that has lost one too many starters already, an injury to Gronkowski might be the straw that breaks the camel's back.

Since his return in week 7, Gronkowski has racked up 37 receptions for 560 yards and 4 touchdowns. His presence on third down and in the red zone is irreplaceable. If Gronkowski isn't the one moving the chains or scoring the touchdowns, you can bet that whoever made the play was helped in part by the attention the defense has devoted to stopping Gronk. This was evident during yesterday's game on Shane Vereen's third quarter touchdown catch. Gronk was doubled in the end zone, and Vereen took a short pass from Brady and walked in for the score untouched.

Gronkowski hasn't received a single negative overall offensive rating from ProFootballFocus.com this season. During their first 6 contests, the Patriots were averaging only 20.8 points per game. They have played an additional 6 games since Gronkowski returned to the field, and have pushed that average to 32.8 points per game.

Gronkowski's value to this offense is undeniable. Considering what this team has already lost, Gronk is probably the most critical player to this team's success, outside of Tom Brady of course. Let's all hope he can remain healthy, and take the Patriots deep into the playoffs.