Gronkowski misses trip to Buffalo
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski did not make the trip to Buffalo for Sunday's season opener against the Bills, according to NFL.com.
Gronkowski, coming back from multiple forearm and back surgeries, was listed as doubtful on the team's injury list Friday.
Gronkowski missed the preseason but returned to practice this week. Coach Bill Belichick said Gronkowski is considered day-to-day, although he reportedly has been expected to miss the Patriots' first two games. New England has a quick turnaround as it hosts the New York Jets on Thursday.
Undrafted rookie Zach Sudfeld is expected to be the Patriots' primary receiving threat among tight ends in Gronkowski's absence.
Also, the Patriots re-signed running back/kick returner Leon Washington and promoted offensive lineman Josh Kline from the practice squad. They released defensive linemen Jermaine Cunningham and Justin Francis off injured reserve.
Washington had 22 carries for 83 yards with one touchdown and handled kickoff and punt return duties for the Seattle Seahawks last year. He spent 2006-09 with the Jets before heading to Seattle in 2010.
The Patriots cut Washington during the final round of roster cuts last week. He reportedly drew interest from the New York Jets, among other teams. He is expected to play against the Bills.
