Pats' Gronkowski absent from practice for 2nd day

[January 28, 2012]  FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) -- Rob Gronkowski is absent from the New England Patriots' practice for the second straight day with an injured left ankle.

WIVB-TV in Buffalo reported that his father, Gordy Gronkowski, said he has a high ankle sprain. Rob Gronkowski attended Williamsville North High School in the Buffalo area.

The station said his father expects him to be fine for the Super Bowl against the New York Giants on Feb. 5.

The Patriots have not disclosed the extent of the injury

The tight end was the only player missing at the start of Friday's practice while reporters were present.

Gronkowski, whose 17 touchdown catches set an NFL single-season record for tight ends, was injured late in the third quarter of Sunday's 23-20 AFC championship victory over the Baltimore Ravens.

[Associated Press; By HOWARD ULMAN]

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