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Patriots Player Profiles: Rob Gronkowski

BOSTON (CBS) - Rob Gronkowski was one of many rookies that made an impact on the 2010 New England Patriots. How will the tight end fair in his sophomore season?

2010 Stats: 16 games, 10 TD, 42 receptions, 546 yards

The 42nd-overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft had a rookie season for the ages. "Gronk" became a household name early in the preseason when, with one leg, he dragged Rams defender James Laurinaitis five yards into the end zone for a touchdown. He went on to catch three more touchdowns, and that was just in the preseason!

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In the regular season, all Gronkowski did was catch a Patriots rookie-record 10 touchdowns. He started with his first career score in Week 1 against the Bengals, caught three more TDs against the Steelers in Week 10, and finished the season off with three more over the final two weeks.

2011 Outlook: Gronk will be looked upon as a big part of the Patriots offense, especially if the team does not get Tom Brady a deep threat.  Three of his 2010 touchdowns were the Patriots first score of the game, so look for Brady to go to his tight end early to set the tone in the short game, opening things up for guys like Deion Branch, Chad Ochocinco and Aaron Hernandez down the field. With a younger offensive line and the departure of Alge Crumpler, he may be called upon to block more as well.

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In his rookie season, Gronkowski not only played in all 16 games, but did not miss a practice all season. It would be hard not to expect a dip in production during his sophomore year, but from what he accomplished last season the sky is the limit for the young and exciting tight end.

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