Marcus Spears believes Tom Brady can figure out the Patriots defense and explains how the Buccaneers defense will use this game in order to get back on track. (1:02).
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced that Rob Gronkowski, the Buccaneers' tight end, will not travel to New England for Saturday. He will be unable to play Sunday against the Patriots due to a rib injury.
Jason Pierre-Paul, Buccaneers' linebacker, also didn't travel with the team. He is currently out with shoulder and hand injuries. Carlton Davis, starting cornerback (abdomen/ribs), was also listed as questionable.
Gronkowski was not expected to play because he was listed as questionable and didn't participate in practice. However, he was seen at practice Friday during a portion that was open to the media. Pierre-Paul practiced Friday, his first since Sept. 15, and was listed as doubtful. Coach Bruce Arians said however that both players would be considered game-time decisions.
Gronkowski will be out of the Patriots' first matchup. He has been playing with them for nine seasons, from 2010 through 2018.
Gronkowski has been a potent red-zone weapon for the Buccaneers this season, with 16 receptions for total 184 yards and four touchdowns over three games.
Pierre-Paul was the emotional leader for a defense that had only three sacks in the first three games.
This report was based on information from Jenna Laine, ESPN.
