Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski has been ruled out for Sunday night’s reunion game against the New England Patriots in Foxborough, Mass.
Gronkowski sustained a rib injury during the Buccaneers’ 34-24 loss to the Los Angeles Rams last Sunday. He did not practice Wednesday or Thursday before making an appearance at practice Friday.
ESPN reported the injury may sideline him for multiple weeks.
Sunday would have been Gronkowski’s first game against the Patriots since he left the team following the 2018 postseason. He retired that offseason, only to return to the NFL after Tom Brady joined the Buccaneers in 2020.
Gronkowski, 32, has collected 16 receptions for 184 yards and four touchdowns this season.
The five-time Pro Bowl selection won three Super Bowls with the Patriots during his nine seasons in New England. He added his fourth Super Bowl title with the Bucs last season.
Buccaneers linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul (hand/shoulder) was ruled out for the contest, while cornerback Carlton Davis was deemed questionable.
Also on Saturday, Tampa Bay promoted cornerback Pierre Desir from the practice squad to the active roster. The Buccaneers waived defensive lineman Khalil Davis in a corresponding move.
The Buccaneers also elevated tight end Codey McElroy and cornerback Rashard Robinson from the practice squad for Sunday’s game.
