The Chicago Bears defense might be catching an enormous break ahead of their Sunday showdown with the Patriots. News just dropped that New England traveled to Chicago without the presence of their superstar tight end Rob Gronkowski according to the Boston Globe. This was quickly backed up by Adam Schefter who stated that it was highly unlikely Gronk would play in the game despite him not yet being declared out.
The Patriots injury report this past week hinted that the All-Pro was dealing with nagging ankle and back problems. He was listed as questionable for the game but most felt he'd still likely play. It would seem the ailments were more serious than originally thought. Gronkowski being out means the Bears won't have to relive their nightmare from four years ago. The last time their defense saw him, Gronk put up 149 yards and three touchdowns in a 51-23 pasting at Gillette Stadium. He is a matchup nightmare. Nobody was sure who on the Bears defense would be able to handle covering him. Danny Trevethan? Roquan Smith? Eddie Jackson? None of those options can be considered ideal. Now they don't have to worry about it. The focus will undoubtedly shift to other key weapons for Tom Brady. Wide receiver Julian Edelman and running back Sony Michel must be focal points. Both have been strong the past two games. Brady is still highly dangerous. In 12 games without Gronkowski dating back to 2016, he has thrown for 3,592 yards, 25 TDs and 7 interceptions. Not otherworldly but still really good.
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