Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski practiced again for the Patriots on Thursday, but on a limited basis.
Rob Gronkowski listed as limited for second straight day, fantasy owners still expect season debut Sunday
Rob Gronkowski was limited in practice for a second straight day, as reports have swirled about the likelihood of him seeing his first game action on Sunday. We break down the fantasy implications.
Stew Milne-US PRESSWIRE
This is the same level of participation that Gronkowski practiced at on Wednesday, and while nursing forearm and back injuries, he has seen the practice field in a limited role for weeks prior to then. The difference is that optimistic reports of the All-Pro tight end making his 2013 debut have floated around this week, suggesting that despite the limitations, Gronkowski will be ready to go.
Fantasy Spin: If that is in fact the case, Gronkowski is a must-start this week even in a stingy matchup versus the Falcons. Despite the Patriots' lack of receiving weapons, they are at an advantageous position at 3-0 and could afford to rest Gronkowski in a non-conference game if he isn't close to 100 percent. Therefore, if the Patriots do trot him out to the field, it would not likely be on a limited basis.
The Falcons held Jared Cook and Jimmy Graham to a combined 55 yards, but despite their ability to cover tight ends, a healthy Gronkowski is more than capable of prevailing.
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