Robert Kraft shares disappointing news ahead of Rob Gronkowski’s Patriots HOF induction

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft disclosed on Thursday that he will be absent from his former player Rob Gronkowski's induction into the team's Hall of Fame. This is due to the fact that Kraft is currently recuperating from back surgery and will be placed on injured reserve. The absence extends to Sunday's home game against the Green Bay Packers and the Patriots' trip to Munich for their match against the Detroit Lions the following week, according to doctors' advice.

Kraft expressed his disappointment in missing the ceremony, stating, "As much pain as I was in before having surgery, it pains me even more to miss the ceremony." Despite his own back surgeries, Kraft found humor in the comparison, recalling his desire to come back as Gronk in his next life, as he admired Gronkowski's consistent positivity.

Gronkowski, a Fox analyst for Sunday's games, received the induction vote from fans in April during his first year of eligibility. The ceremony was scheduled around Gronkowski's availability, with the inductee set to receive recognition during halftime of Sunday's game against the Packers. Kraft reminisced about Gronkowski's early days with the team, highlighting their friendship that began on draft day.

The Patriots have suffered significant injuries recently, including star wide receiver A.J. Brown, running back TreVeyon Henderson, wide receivers Mack Hollins and Romeo Doubs, and guards Mike Onwenu and Alijah Vera-Tucker. Tight end Hunter Henry is also sidelined with a foot injury. The team is now in need of the resilience that Gronkowski brought to the locker room during his tenure with the Patriots.