Gronkowski active, set to make season debut vs. Texans

New England tight end Rob Gronkowski is reportedly telling teammates that he plans to play tonight.

The 27-year-old plays tight end in the National Football League and he’s loved the sport since his college days.

At this point, his status for the Patriots Week Three game against the Houston Texans on Thursday night is still up in the air, but it is definitely looking better. Bledsoe, who had been the No. 1 overall pick in the 1993 National Football League draft, was the last rookie to start a game at quarterback for the Patriots before Brissett took the field on Thursday night, leading the team out of the tunnel before the game and then to a victory during it. Brissett made his National Football League debut in relief of Garoppolo, who was slammed to the turf by Dolphins linebacker Kiko Alonso on Sunday, a 31-24 Patriots victory.

Gronkowski has been held back for the past few weeks because of a hamstring issue that popped up during training camp. Garoppolo practiced on a limited basis this week, but was listed as doubtful on Wednesday. However, it looks like they’re finally taking the gloves off Thursday night. Although Gronk may not be 100 percent and could be a little rusty, his presence should open up things for Martellus Bennett, Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola and Chris Hogan. If the Patriots are effective on the ground, McDaniels could open things up down the field through play action.

Ian Rapoport also claims there is a “real chance” Gronkowski will make his first start tonight against the Houston Texans. The new team captain hauled in 72 receptions for 1176 yards and 11 touchdowns. And no one can blame Rob Gronkowski for playing the cards he was dealt.