New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski did not practice on Wednesday after missing their game Sunday against the Chicago Bears with back and ankle injuries. However, Gronk has returned to practice ahead of their Week 8 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.

Gronkowski has been banged up for most of the year. He's been battling an ankle problem for several weeks now. And his back issue suddenly flared up ahead of the Bears game which ruled him out for the first time this season. However, that back injury is considered a short-term problem.

A recent report suggests that Gronkowski has “a shot” to play against Buffalo, and the fact that he’s back at practice should only strengthen the possibility that he will make his return. But as the Patriots showed against the Bears, they are still capable of putting up points even without Gronkowski.

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Despite the absence of Gronk and running back Sony Michel, Tom Brady found a way to get things done. He connected with James White for two touchdowns, while Josh Gordon recorded his first 100-yard receiving game as a Patriot.

If there’s even a slight doubt as to Gronkowski’s health, the Patriots would be wise to take extra precaution and sit him out again. There’s little point in risking Gronk’s long-term health against Buffalo, a game which they should still win even without their star tight end.

Moreover, an extra week’s rest could give Gronkowski a much better shot of playing in the Patriots’ big Week 9 matchup against the Green Bay Packers.