Report: Patriots' Gronkowski likely out multiple weeks with minor knee strain

Rob Gronkowski will likely miss multiple weeks after an MRI confirmed a minor right knee strain, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Earlier reports suggested the New England Patriots tight end would miss one-to-two weeks, but it appears his recovery will fall on the long side of that timeline.

With New England no longer chasing perfection, yet still comfortably atop the AFC playoff picture, the team is unlikely to rush Gronkowski back before he's 100 percent.

His availability down the stretch remains a positive development after he was carted off the field Sunday against the Denver Broncos.

Along with the potential returns of wide receivers Danny Amendola and Julian Edelman, Gronkowski will put the Patriots in the best possible position to defend last year's Super Bowl title.

Gronkowski continued to establish himself as one of the NFL's most dominant players through 11 games this season, recording 61 receptions for 931 yards and nine touchdowns.