Rob Gronkowski Injury: Will Patriots Star Tight End Miss The Beginning Of 2013 Season?

One of the most reliable targets in the NFL may not be ready for the start of the 2013 season. According to the Boston Herald, New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski has suffered a setback following surgery to repair a broken left forearm.

Gronkowski first injured the arm in a week 11 victory against the Indianapolis Colts. Sidelined for five weeks following surgery that required a plate to be installed, the 23-year-old superstar returned for the regular-season finale and postseason, but during a divisional round victory over the Houston Texans, Gronkowski broke the same arm while attempting to make a catch. Surgery to repair the break was performed but Grownkowski developed an infection to the affected area and required another procedure to be done in February.

Reports from the Boston Globe say the next step in finally ending problems to one of the most lethal players in the league will be to remove the first plate installed and replace it with a new one. The infected tissue around the injury could potentially create an elongated stretch in time before the procedure can be performed. This possible stretch in time could very well overlap with the start of the 2013 season and sideline "Gronk" for the beginning of New England's campaign.

As has been the case for over a decade, the Patriots will begin 2013 as one of the favorites in the AFC.

Led by future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady, the Patriots rely heavily on the passing game, something that may take an early hit due to the recent departure of wide receiver Wes Welker. While Welker signed with the Denver Broncos as a free agent a few weeks ago, the Patriots were able to sign speedy wide out Danny Amendola to fill his shoes.

Not having their top tight end target in Gronkowski could hinder the quick offensive starts New England is known for, but the Pats and head coach Bill Belichick are great at making adjustments.

Gronkowski hauled in 11 touchdowns from Tom Brady last season and should he be forced to sit out early on, New England does have the services of Aaron Hernandez. Hernandez, a do-it-all offensive weapon for the Patriots, has 175 receptions for over 1,900 yards and 18 TD's in his 3-year career.