The New England Patriots are ready to begin another playoff run in the divisional round with a matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Unlike last year, they'll have Rob Gronkowski at their disposal.

Saturday will be the first playoff game for the star tight end since January of 2016, as he missed last year's Super Bowl run due to a back injury that ended his 2016 campaign eight games in. This time around, Gronkowski is healthy and is excited about the opportunity to once again play in the postseason, per Alec Brzezinski of the Sporting News.

“I’m excited, definitely. I wasn’t part of it last year, but not looking in the back, just looking forward to this game,” Gronkowski said Tuesday in a press conference. “I’m super excited to be back out there with the team. Just super excited today out there on the field with the boys again. We had a couple of days off. It’s my first playoff game in a while, so I’m excited, man. I’ve just got to take it one day at a time right now.”

Article Continues Below
More New England Patriots News
Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) during the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium.
Patriots rumors: Mike Florio examines ‘complicated’ Stefon Diggs cut scenarioBen Strauss ·
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel (center) with Eastern Washington receiver Efton Chism III (left) and Patriots cornerback Kobee Minor (right)
3 New England Patriots hidden gems on 2025 roster you need to knowJaren Kawada ·
Oct 27, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) walks towards the sideline before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Patriots rumors: Stefon Diggs being cut ‘on the table’ amid viral videoMike Gianakos ·
Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) warms up prior to the game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Stefon Diggs’ future hinges on truth over boat party says Albert BreerJake Faigus ·
New England Patriots guard Cole Strange (69) defends against Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Neil Farrell Jr. (93) at Allegiant Stadium.
Patriots rumors: Controversial 1st-Round pick on chopping block to be cutConor Roche ·
New England Patriots center David Andrews (60) watches from the sideline during the first half against the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium.
2-time Super Bowl champion retires after 10 seasons with PatriotsConor Roche ·

Gronkowski figures to play a major role in the passing game against a Titans defense that was torched last week by Kansas City Chiefs Pro Bowl tight end Travis Kelce before he exited the game due to a concussion. The 28-year-old proved that he is still arguably the league's best player at the position this season, compiling 69 catches for 1,084 receiving yards and eight touchdowns.

The All-Pro tight end has taken his game to another level in the postseason. In just nine career playoff games, Gronkowski's nine touchdowns are currently tied for fourth in league history and first among tight ends. He is also fourth at his position with 754 receiving yards.

His three career 100-yard receiving games in the postseason are tied for third all-time among tight ends behind Vernon Davis (four) and Keith Jackson (four).