Patriots' Rob Gronkowski: Shelved on IR

Gronkowski (back) was placed on season-ending injured reserve Saturday, ESPN's Field Yates reports.

Analysis:

Gronkowski required surgery Friday to repair a herniated disc in his back, prematurely ending his 2016 campaign. He'll finish the season with career lows across the board consisting of 25 receptions for 540 yards and three touchdowns. While fellow tight end Martellus Bennett likely stands to be the primary beneficiary of Gronkowski's absence, wideouts Julian Edelman, Chris Hogan and Malcolm Mitchell could each be in store for an increased market share of the Patriots' passing attack as well.