The New England Patriots are coming off back-to-back losses as injuries have played a huge factor in the team's recent struggles. Once again, Tom Brady is left to try and make something out of nothing as he is down a few of his star offensive weapons. With a winnable game approaching against the Houston Texans, the Patriots are hopeful that they can get things back on track. However, if they are it will likely be without Rob Gronkowski.
According to CSNNewEngland.com, Gronkowski has not been seen at practice since suffering a knee strain and deep bruise. The tight end was not expected to miss an extended period of time with the injury, but things are not looking positive that he will be active in Week 14. According to sources, if the tight end can get back by Friday then he stands a chance at getting to play on Sunday, but the Patriots are very aware they cannot afford to rush Gronkowski back on the field until he is ready.
There is concern that he could be held out until the postseason depending on what happens in the coming games. According to NESN.com, the Patriots have toyed with the idea, but nothing is set in stone until Gronkowski can get back on the field for practice. Julian Edelman is already out until at least the postseason which means Brady could be without his two top targets for several more weeks.
In the meantime the Patriots are hyping Danny Amendola has their best weapon on the field. Coming back from a knee injury of his own, Brady knows just how important the receiver is to the team while head coach Bill Belichick calls him the toughest player on the field.
"He's as physically and mentally as tough of a player as we have. It's good to have him out there," Belichick said, via NFL.com. "He really, really fought hard. I don't think he could have done any more than what he did. He gave us all he had on every play, and we needed that. Danny really competed hard."
The Patriots are not worried about the losing streak becoming an issue, but the team needs improvement if they are going to break it. James White became a star in Week 13 and needs to keep the momentum moving while Brandon LaFell struggled and needs to step up. Without Gronkowski and Edelman on the field, the pressure is on the rest of the offense to step up and get Brady some help around the field.
