Sources told ESPN that Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight-end Rob Gronkowski has suffered fractured ribs which could leave him unable to work for several weeks.
Gronkowski didn't travel with the Buccaneers from Tampa, Massachusetts to Sunday's match against the New England Patriots, because of possible injury.
ESPN reported that "We held out hope throughout the week that Gronk would arrive ready." "He's a completely different breed."
Gronkowski sustained the injury in Sunday's loss against the Los Angeles Rams, but he returned to play the rest of the game. Gronkowski and the Buccaneers initially didn't believe the injury was that severe. X-rays of Gronkowski’s ribs were taken after the game and came back negative.
Further MRI testing was done during the week to confirm the fractures that were not visible on X-rays. These fractures do not appear as hairline fractures.
Gronkowski didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday, and was only seen stretching during Friday practice. Before downgrading Gronkowski to out on Saturday, the Buccaneers had him listed as doubtful Friday.
The Buccaneers travel to New England this weekend. They play at Philadelphia on Thursday night, then return home for Chicago, before playing at New Orleans.
