Gronkowski believes Edelman is irreplaceable

The New England Patriots enter Thursday's season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs as prohibitive favorites to repeat as Super Bowl champions, but they are still reeling from a key loss.

Julian Edelman suffered a torn ACL during the preseason, ending his year prematurely. Although Edelman will be capably replaced by Chris Hogan, Danny Amendola, and a host of other receiving options, tight end Rob Gronkowski expressed his sorrow regarding his veteran teammate.

"Julian's not a replaceable player. The way he works, the way he plays the game is second to none," Gronkowski said of Edelman via CBS Sports. "The only thing is players like myself and the offense we have to step up and take on bigger roles. We have to work hard and move forward, but we're going to miss him on the field."

Last season Edelman helped the Patriots win their second Super Bowl in three years, recording one of the greatest catches in league history which spurred his team's comeback rally against the Atlanta Falcons.

Although the Patriots are well-equipped to deal with his injury, Edelman has carved a fundamental role in the team's passing game and it remains to be seen how the reigning champions will adapt without him.