Report: Rob Gronkowski's Absence Causing Tension Around New England Patriots

The Rob Gronkowski saga is wearing on some members of the New England Patriots, who now wonder why he’s not playing and if he’ll even see the field this year, according to a report from ESPN’s Ed Werder.

All indications are the tight end will miss today’s game against New Orleans as he awaits clearance from Dr. James Andrews.

"“There’s curiosity and resentment, and he’s creating it by going out and kicking ass during the week and then he doesn’t show up on game day and help the team win,” one source said."

The Patriots’ decision to keep Gronkowski on the roster and not place him on the PUP list suggested they believed he’d be ready to rejoin the team within the first six weeks of the season. As that possibility becomes less likely, there are also questions about Gronkowski’s involvement in practice.

"“If he’s not playing in games, he damn sure should not be doing what he is in practice,” said the same source who mentioned resentment."

Teammates have reportedly become hostile to Gronkowski, creating an uncomfortable situation for him in the locker room.

One can argue the true impact  of “tension” on a team, but this is the last thing notoriously tight-lipped Bill Belichick wants floating around as undefeated New Orleans looms.

[Photo via USA Today Sports]