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About the Author: Jon Ledyard
Latest Bucs Headlines
Bucs TE Rob Gronkowski missed the Bucs Week 4 victory over the Patriots with a rib injury, and perhaps some other maladies, depending on who you ask. After initial X-rays were negative for Gronkowski’s ribs, further tested revealed several cracked ribs and further damage. Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer reported the most concerning injury news we’ve heard regarding Gronkowski.
The Inside scoop – week 4 @RobGronkowski tells me he has “4 cracked ribs, 1 broken rib, and a punctured lung,” which is about the only thing that would have kept him out of this game. Bit more
on Watson & Lane Johnson out today, not with the team for personal reasons. @NFLonFOX pic.twitter.com/MgG27OSt3r— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) October 3, 2021
Bucs head coach Bruce Arians was asked about the All-Pro tight end’s injury after Tampa Bay’s 19-17 victory. Arians provided some clarification to the conflicting reports. Well, as much clarification as Arians ever provides on injuries.
“Once he had the CT scans some things showed up,” Arians said. “He did have, I think, three or four fractures and a pinch in the lung. It wasn’t blown up, but we’ll see how long it takes.”
The reported injuries sound serious, but Gronkowski hasn’t been placed on injured reserve, which would render him out for three weeks. In fact, the Bucs waived DT Khalil Davis rather than put Gronkowski on IR. The 32-year old pass catcher warmed up with his helmet during Friday’s practice, and was originally listed as doubtful on the injury report. Still, it seems Gronkowski will have a chance to be back against Miami next Sunday.
“Could be [back] next week,” Arians said after the game. “Who knows?”
