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The initial indications regarding Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski’s back failed to comply with ensuing developments.

Per the same source that shared with PFT the impression that initial indications suggested Gronkowski’s back injury was not serious, it turned out to be. He will have surgery on Friday to repair a herniated disc.

Gronkowski will be out indefinitely.

He had back surgery in college and again in 2013. He also has had a variety of other injuries and surgeries during his time in the NFL, including ankle, arm, and ACL surgeries.

Without Gronkowski, Martellus Bennett becomes New England’s primary weapon at the tight end position.