New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski needs a fourth surgery on his left forearm.
Gronkowski will undergo his fourth surgery to replace a plate that stabilizes the broken bone in his forearm, according to the Boston Herald. The plate must be switched and the surrounding tissue tested. Gronkowski's operation comes on the heels of completing a six-week course of antibiotics to treat a lingering infection in his forearm.
While the fourth surgery was expected, the real question is if a fifth will be needed. If doctors find Gronkowski still has an infection, then he will have to undergo a fifth surgery. A fifth surgery would make his availability for the start of the season uncertain.
If there are no complications during the fourth surgery and no infection is found, then Gronkowski should be ready to play by Week 1.
Gronkowski broke his left forearm in November against the Indianapolis Colts. He underwent surgery and missed the next five games before returning for the regular season finale against the Miami Dolphins.
He reinjured the same arm in January during the AFC divisional playoff game against the Houston Texans. He underwent his second surgery to repair the bone soon after.
The third surgery happened in March to clean out an infection.
Gronkowski, 23, is already one of the NFL's premiere tight ends. In just three seasons, the two-time Pro Bowler amassed 187 receptions, 2,663 receiving yards and 38 touchdowns.
