The New England Patriots don't have any concerns about Pro Bowl tight end Rob Gronkowski's health heading into training camp, a source with direct knowledge of his situation said Monday.
The third-year pro suffered a serious ankle injury before Super Bowl XLVI, then played the game at less-than-full strength. He underwent successful arthroscopic surgery Feb. 10, but didn't participate in minicamp.
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Still, the source said Gronkowski is "good to go" when veterans report for training camp July 25. Earlier in the offseason, Gronkowski signed a six-year, $54 million extension that puts him under contract with the Patriots through 2019.
That's no doubt good news for the player who set records at his position with 90 catches for 1,327 yards and 17 touchdowns.
However, this doesn't necessarily mean Gronkowski will be on the field when camp opens. Two years ago, for instance, wide receiver Wes Welker was placed on the active/physically unable to perform list following knee surgery -- as a precaution. By the fourth day of practice, he was on the field.
It's possible Gronkowski will follow a similar formula.
The Patriots spent the offseason cycling through tight ends, most recently working out veteran Visanthe Shiancoe. Newly signed Daniel Fells also dealt with a reportedly minor injury and missed minicamp. They could be close to full strength when training camp begins.
UPDATE: Gronkowski was not among the six Patriots the team placed on the active/physically unable to perform list on Monday, according to an ESPN report.
Guard Logan Mankins was placed on active/PUP and will not be ready when Patriots camp opens Thursday, ESPN reported. Mankins underwent ACL surgery on his left knee in February.
