New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski is set to undergo back surgery on Friday and could miss up to two months, according to reports.
Gronkowski exited Sunday's win over the New York Jets with a suspected herniated disk. News of the surgery was first reported by the Buffalo News' Vic Carucci.
Both Gronkowski and quarterback Tom Brady, who has been dealing with a knee injury, missed Patriots practice on Wednesday.
Seven-year veteran Gronkowski, who has 25 catches for 540 yards and three touchdowns this season, only returned to action last weekend after missing the previous game against San Francisco due a chest injury.
The 27-year-old played seven snaps in Sunday's win over the Jets, before leaving the game late in the first quarter as he walked off under his own power with members of the team's medical staff.
If Gronkowski were to miss eight weeks, he would not be ready to return until January 27. That means he would miss the AFC Championship Game (January 22) should the Patriots - who are currently the number one seeds in the AFC - get there.
Gronkowski's injury is a hammer blow to the Patriots, who are the current Super Bowl favourites. The four-time first-team All Pro is Brady's number one target and one of the most potent weapons in the NFL.
Upgrade to Sky Sports now and get 12 months half price. Hurry, offer ends December 4!