The New England Patriots don't like to reveal much when it comes to injuries, but they don't mind admitting that tight end Rob Gronkowski (arm) isn't close to playing this week.
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Gronkowski was the only player the Patriots listed as out for Monday night's big game against the Houston Texans. But the Patriots listed 13 players as questionable, with key starters such as offensive lineman Dan Connolly (back), defensive end Chandler Jones (ankle), guard Logan Mankins (ankle/calf) and offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer (back) the most notable names on the list.
The injury news for the Texans is much simpler. Offensive tackle Derek Newton (knee) and linebacker Brooks Reed (groin) are out, as expected. But cornerback Johnathan Joseph (hamstring) and linebacker Bradie James are among the 18 Texans listed as probable.
The Patriots have survived Gronkowski's loss to this point, but their running game really has missed his devastating blocking ability.
Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.
