Gronkowski says 'no doubt' he'll be ready for next season

Rob Gronkowski was forced to watch from the sidelines as the New England Patriots became Super Bowl champions after he underwent back surgery in December, the latest in a long list of injuries which have hampered the tight end during his career.

However, Gronkowski said there's "no doubt" he'll be healthy and ready to go at the start of the 2017 season, and emphasized his desire to keep playing despite his injuries.

"I'm not really sure," Gronkowski said in an interview with ESPN's Cari Champion when asked how long he plans on staying in the NFL. "I still love playing the game, and as of right now, I want to play as long as I can possibly play. My mindset is to keep on going."

It was the third back surgery of Gronkowski's career, and his eighth overall, so it's fair to question how long the perennial Pro Bowler can hold up.

Gronkowski also missed time earlier in the season due to a hamstring injury and a bruised lung.

Despite his injuries, Gronkowski remains the league's best tight end, and if he's back to 100 percent, the Patriots will like their chances of winning back-to-back titles.