BOSTON (CBS) – For the first time since breaking his forearm nearly a month ago, tight end Rob Gronkowski took the practice field for the New England Patriots.

Gronkowski’s presence on Friday will just fuel more speculation that he could make a return for Sunday’s game. The Patriots final injury report is due out late Friday, when the club will have to give a status on Gronkowski.

It is more likely that Gronkowski is just getting practice reps in as he works his way back.

Gronkowski has missed the last three games after suffering the injury on November 18 against the Colts, and did not participate in Wednesday’s walkthrough or Thursday’s practice as the Patriots prepare for the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday night.

For the season, Gronkowski has 53 receptions for 748 yards and a team-high 10 touchdown receptions.

Tune in to Patriots-49ers Sunday night on 98.5 The Sports Hub! Pregame coverage begins at 5pm with Patriots Preview, with three hours of coverage following the game. WBZ-TV’s coverage kicks off with Patriots GameDay at 11:30am, with Patriots 5th Quarter after the game.