New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski participated in his first full-pads practice Sunday since undergoing multiple surgeries on his left forearm and one surgery on his back this offseason. While it is not considered a realistic expectation for Gronkowski to be ready for the regular-season opener Sept. 8 on the road against the Buffalo Bills, or the home opener against the Jets the following Thursday, his presence on the practice field Sunday reflects that he continues to make progress in his rehabilitation, and might be ready to transition from a rehab-specific focus to more football-specific drills.
