Belichick: Rob Gronkowski Cleared To Play
BOSTON (CBS) -- Watch out NFL, Rob Gronkowski has been cleared for action.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick kicked off training camp with a press conference on Wednesday morning, and said his All Pro tight end is good to go for the 2014 season.
"He's been cleared to play," Belichick said.
Gronkowski was limited to just seven games in 2013. He missed the first six weeks of the season as he recovered from off-season arm and back surgeries, and then missed the final three weeks after suffering a torn ACL in Week 14 against the Cleveland Browns. He underwent surgery on his ACL six months ago, and and was not placed on the PUP list ahead of camp.
"It's great to have him out there; he's a dynamic blocker and a big target for Tom [Brady] to get the ball to," said offensive lineman Logan Mankins. "Anytime you can have Gronk on the field, it's great."
"Gronk is Gronk -- Yo soy fiesta, right?" said defensive lineman Rob Ninkovich. "He's a tremendous player, and personality-wise, he's one of the best guys you can meet... I'm happy to see his progress and happy to see him coming into this season."
Gronkowski, who hauled in 39 receptions and four touchdowns in his limited action in 2013, was among the group of players to show up to camp early. The rest of the team reports on Wednesday.
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In participating in team activities over the last few days, Gronkowski is no longer eligible to land on the PUP list, Belichick said Wednesday.
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