Rob Gronkowski is back –well, maybe not in the catching touchdowns, spiking balls sense just yet, but he has resurfaced.

Gronkowski, who spent the last few weeks recovering from his recent back surgery, popped back up on the scene Wednesday night, celebrating a Fourth of July bash in his native Buffalo.

Gronk had several surgeries this offseason, but he was hanging around, with no cast or brace in sight, as his friends appeared to be indulging in a few beverages in honor of America’s birthday.

Gronk’s health is a prominent storyline for the Patriots this season. Tom Brady‘s receiving corps has been completely remade, and Gronkowski’s tight end counterpart, Aaron Hernandez, is no longer around to help pick up the slack. So, getting Gronk healthy and back on the football field will be key in determining how this Patriots season goes.

From the looks of it, Gronkowski is off to a good start. He is looking a little thin, though, which apparently can happen after having five surgeries in one calendar year.

Check out Gronk in the photos below.