It’s been a long hiatus for Rob Gronkowski after a scary injury in Week 3. The big tight end was hammered in the ribs on a tackle, fracturing several and puncturing a lung. The initial round of tests on Gronkowski were negative, allowing him to return to the game. Only later did the Bucs learn the severity of his injuries.

Now, six games later, Gronkowski appears ready to return to action on Monday night against the Giants. He briefly tried to return against the Saints in Week 8, but suffered back spasms almost immediately. The Bucs top tight end spoke to the media for the first time in weeks on the extent of his injury.

“The next day was the worst,” Gronkowski said. “It felt like – I never got shot before – but that’s kinda what it felt like.”

Gronkowski has been a full participant in practice over the past two days. That’s a great sign he’ll play on Monday night against the Giants. Gronkowski started the season on a tear, catching 16 passes for 184 yards and four touchdowns in three games. His four touchdowns are still tied for second on the team.

Bucs TE Rob Gronkowski – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

Head coach Bruce Arians sounded optimistic about the former All-Pro’s potential return.

“Yeah, his arrow is pointing up,” Arians said. “He looks better and better.”

Cam Brate and O.J. Howard have been wholly uninspiring while replacing Gronkowski over the past six weeks. On the season, Brate has 14 catches for 131 yards and one touchdown. Howard has chipped in 13 catches for 125 yards and a score. Newly-signed tight end Darren Fells is also in the fold if needed.

The Bucs return to action against the Giants on Monday Night Football.