New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski has officially cleared the concussion protocol, making him available for Super Bowl LII. Needless to say, quarterback Tom Brady is ecstatic to have his star pass-catcher back in action.
Patriots players have been making their rounds with the media in the week leading up to Sunday. According to Charean Williams of Pro Football Talk, Brady is excited at the prospect of Gronkowski making his return:
“Have you talked to him yet? Is he around here today? He is? Well, good,” Brady said, laughing. “That makes me happy then. He’s a big weapon for us. He’s a guy that always shows up with a great attitude. He’s just an incredible player. Hopefully he can go out there and play his best game of the year.”
It goes without saying that when healthy, Gronkowski is the best tight end in football. However, being injury-free has become somewhat of a challenge for Gronk throughout his whole career.
His health has become a major concern as of late after missing last year's Super Bowl with a back injury that forced him out of the season just eight games in. Gronkowski's injury woes carried over into this year's AFC Championship Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he suffered a concussion.
As a result, there has been plenty of speculation regarding how crucial he actually is to the Patriots' success. Fortunately for Gronkowski, the unwavering support of his star quarterback and those within the Patriots organization has never relented, and they know his presence is key to winning a sixth Lombardi Trophy.