When former Colts G.M. Bill Polian opted to join the media, we knew that he’d provide plenty of interesting nuggets.
He gave one up today.
Appearing with Ross Tucker on SiriusXM NFL Radio’s Opening Drive, Polian said that Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski failed a physical with the Colts prior to the 2010 draft.
Though it looks like excuse-making, the reality is that there were many different opinions regarding Gronkowski two years ago. He had a serious back injury in college, which originally occurred while lifting weights. Some teams viewed the situation as a potential career-limiter. Other teams saw it as a non-issue.
So far, the Patriots guessed right, and the concerns helped them get him later in the draft process. And teams like the Colts surely are kicking themselves for not taking a crack at Gronkowski before the 42nd overall selection in 2010.
The discrepancy regarding Gronkowski also highlights the reality that different teams could have different opinions regarding Colts quarterback Peyton Manning. Indy’s doctors may choose to conclude that he’s not ready to go. Physicians from other teams may disagree.