The Patriots are down 12-0 in Cleveland and they’re going to have to make a comeback without tight end Rob Gronkowski’s help.
The tight end took a shot to the right knee from Browns safety T.J. Ward while trying to catch a pass from Tom Brady. Ward went low on the play, which is sure to lead to more discussion about how defensive players hit under the current rules of the league.
It was a scary looking hit in real time as Gronkowski’s leg buckled and he immediately went down with his hands on his helmet. He was helped onto a cart, where Ward went over to shake his hand, and taken back to the locker room a short time later.
There’s been no official announcement from the Pats about the tight end’s condition, but it would be surprising to see him on the field again today.
Things got worse for the Patriots on the next play when Tom Brady fumbled while being sacked by Paul Kruger. John Hughes fell on the ball and the Browns are trying to extend their lead in New England.