Skip to content

Patriots place Gronkowski on season-ending IR

David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports / Reuters

The New England Patriots have placed tight end Rob Gronkowski on injured reserve with a back injury which will end his 2016 season, the team announced Saturday.

The move is not surprising, as the team announced Thursday that they did not expect Gronkowski to return this season. The 27-year-old underwent surgery for his injured back on Friday.

In eight games played this season, Gronkowski has caught 25 passes for 540 yards and three touchdowns. In his absence, Martellus Bennett will take over full-time starting duty at tight end.

In a corresponding move, running back D.J. Foster has been signed from the practice squad.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox