The Patriots hold their first practice in preparation for the Super Bowl on Thursday. So the injury report won’t be a piece of fiction this time around.
When the injury report comes out, it will indicate tight end Rob Gronkowski sat out the session with his ankle injury. Bill Belichick confirmed as much as his press conference Thursday. (No soy fiesta?)
Belichick joked that talking injuries is his “favorite topic” and said Gronkowski is feeling “good” before saying his “crystal ball is kind of clouding up.”
We found his remark about tackle Sebastian Vollmer interesting. Vollmer was able to practice in some capacity last week, and Belichick said that Vollmer would definitely be on the gameday roster for the Super Bowl if he can get healthy. Vollmer started five of the six games he’s played this year. He hasn’t suited up since Week 12.
It’s uncertain if Vollmer would start ahead of rookie Nate Solder if Vollmer was able to play. The Patriots often like to use three tackles at the same time, so Vollmer could earn snaps in a “swing tackle” role.