Throughout his career, New England Patriots star tight end Rob Gronkowski has dealt with numerous injuries, limiting his availability on the field.

Heading into the 2018 season, Gronkowski voiced more confidence and comfort with his health this year compared to last season, according to Christopher Price of The Boston Sports Journal.

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Given Gronkowski's injury history, this is an encouraging sign for the Patriots. He previously has missed significant chunks of time due to a couple back surgeries. Gronkowski was able to play at an elite level this past year after coming off another back surgery, leading the Patriots with 69 receptions, 1,084 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns that earned him a Pro Bowl selection and a First-Team All-Pro nod. It marked his fourth 1,000-receiving yard season and third over the last four years along, as well as his sixth season with at least eight touchdown receptions.

Gronkowski still has the talent and ability to perform like one of the best players at his position, which only makes his strong state of health this offseason more promising in terms of what could lie ahead in the 2018 campaign. The Patriots will be counting on him greatly, especially with quarterback Tom Brady having difficulty truly connecting with his current crop of wide receivers. The franchise overhauled the position this offseason with the departures of Danny Amendola, Brandin Cooks, Kenny Britt, and Malcolm Mitchell, just to name a few.

It does set the table for Gronkowski to put together one of the most productive campaigns of his career, but more importantly, play a critical role in helping the Patriots get back to the Super Bowl once again.