Patriots' Rob Gronkowski: Expresses no doubt with regard to Week 1 status

Gronkowski, who was placed on IR this past December after undergoing a procedure on his back, relayed that he has "no doubt" that he will be ready for the start of the upcoming regular season, CSN New England reports.

Analysis:

While Gronkowski's optimism on the injury front is encouraging, the tight end's status will still be worth monitoring closely in the coming months due to his lengthy history of back woes (including three surgeries) as well as other assorted ailments. When healthy, Gronkowski is fantasy's top tight end. However, following a 2016 campaign in which he only played eight games -- logging 25 catches for 540 yards and three TDs in the process -- his durability issues will no doubt be a concern for prospective fantasy owners. Meanwhile, fellow tight end Martellus Bennett, who filled in capably for Gronkowski down the stretch, is heading toward free agency and could leave the Patriots.