Tampa Bay Buccaneers Injury Crisis: TE Rob Gronkowski Out With Fractured Ribs

Looks like Tom Brady will be the only ex-Patriot returning home, as Rob Gronkowski is ruled out of Sunday Night’s game with fractured ribs. With a list of other injuries, the Tampa Bay squad is under immense pressure to perform well in this much-anticipated match of the season.

As Rob suffered a rib injury during his clash with the Los Angeles Rams, the tight end missed the team practice for the entire week. And with the incomplete duo of Brady-Gronkowski, it will be much easier for the Patriots to hold off the Bucs in their terrain.

Rob Gronkowski sustains two hairline fractures

After catching a short pass from Brady, the tight end collided with linebacker Terrell Lewis. Following the collision, Rob was sent off for a sideline examination, but eventually returned to play. Head coach Bruce Arians during the post-game interview stated that the X-ray revealed no fracture.

However, the hit seemed to bother the 33-year-old after the game because of which Rob Gronkowski missed an entire week’s practice. And although initially listed as a ‘doubtful’ for the Sunday night matchup with the Patriots, has been downgraded to sit out the entire game.

In a report by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Rob Gronkowski has suffered two hairline fractures and could be out next week as well. The tight end will surely be missed at Gillette Stadium as through these three weeks, Rob has made four touchdown receptions, with 184 receiving yards.

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Tom Brady to lead the Bucs without Gronkowski

However, the four-time All-Pro isn’t the only one injured in the Bucs squad. As along with him, linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul has sustained a shoulder injury and RB Giovani Bernard and CB Jamel Dean both can be seen on the Bucs sidelines with knee injuries.

Although due to Rob’s absence, O.J. Howard and Cameron Brate will have more time on the field. The duo has caught a combined seven of eight targets for 75 yards this season.

In today’s match, Tom Brady’s offense will face one of the best defenses in the NFL at present without the likes of Rob Gronkowski. Although it is going to be one heck of a showdown anyway as the starter, Tom Brady will play against his former teammates and coach who rose him to new heights.

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