Tom Brady's return to New England to face the Patriots has been the talk of the NFL world this past week. But his Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be missing one key cog to their attack – one Pats fans are most familiar with in Rob Gronkowski.

The Bucs tight end's status has been monitored ever since he suffered a rib injury during their last game against the Los Angeles Rams. Gronk was listed as doubtful during the week, but the tag has now officially been changed to OUT, according to ESPN's Jordan Schultz.

Not only will Gronk not be suiting up for the Bucs to face Bill Belichick and the Patriots alongside Tom Brady. He apparently won't even be traveling with the team as he recovers from his rib injury.

Article Continues Below
Related News
Jan 18, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Philadelphia Eagles former player and ESPN commentator Jason Kelce reacts before in a 2025 AFC divisional round game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Texans at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Jason Kelce hits USA Flag QB with fiery ‘not the best’ reality checkMike Gianakos ·
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) tracks a deep pass as Los Angeles Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) defends in the first quarter during Super Bowl 56, Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif.
NFL rumors: Insider dumps cold water on Rams’ Jalen Ramsey trade pursuitBen Strauss ·
Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell (58) carries the ball and runs against Chicago Bears linebacker Jack Sanborn (57) during the first half at Ford Field in Detroit
How ESPN projects Packers, Bears’ chances to beat out Lions in NFC NorthBen Strauss ·
Detailed view of the jersey of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome.
Team USA flag football star blasts idea of NFL players in 2028 OlympicsBenedetto Vitale ·
Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis (8) exits the field after losing 24-17 to the New York Jets in their home opener.
Steelers rumors: NFL analyst suggests Will Levis trade with TitansBenjamin Adducchio ·
Broadcaster Jim Nantz introduces players Monday, Feb. 24, 2025, during the “Night of Champions” at the Murat Theatre at the Old National Centre.
Jim Nantz makes bold Chiefs-Cowboys NFL Thanksgiving predictionBenjamin Adducchio ·

Considering Rob Gronkowski is not even making the trip, the injury must be pretty severe. Just the fact that there was speculation he could play despite that goes to show how tough he truly is.

The Bucs vs. Patriots Hollywood matchup may lose one of its big stars, but the headliners in Tom Brady and Bill Belichick are still primed and ready to put on a show, with plenty of legacy-laden stakes on the line.