Unless the New England Patriots make the Super Bowl, we might not see Rob Gronkowski again this season.

After missing some time with a punctured lung, Gronk attempted to play against the rival Jets this past Sunday. He didn't stay on the field for long, leaving during the first quarter with a back injury. Initially, it was believed that Gronkowski wouldn't miss any additional time. Unfortunately, that isn't the case.

As reported by Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio, Gronkowski will undergo back surgery tomorrow.

8 weeks?!

Vic Carucci of The Buffalo News expanded on Florio's report, stating that Gronk suffered a ruptured disk and is expected to be out for eight weeks.

With five weeks left in the regular season as well as three playoff weeks, Gronkowski's return is slated for just after the AFC Championship Game. With two weeks separating the AFC title and the Super Bowl, Gronkowski would be able to rest an additional week should New England advance to the big game in Houston.

Of course, if the Patriots are playing for the AFC title on January 22nd, or even in the divisional round the week before (quite likely as they head for a bye), Gronk will do everything in his power to get on the field. But, rushing him back hasn't been an effective strategy previously.

Compared to years past, the Patriots are better positioned for an extended Gronkowski absence because of the signing of Martellus Bennett. Still, a great New England offense becomes nearly unstoppable with Gronk in the lineup. They're just not the same team without him.