Patriots Owner Robert Kraft Misses Rob Gronkowski’s Hall of Fame Induction After Back Surgery

Robert Kraft Sidelined by Back Surgery

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft will miss Rob Gronkowski’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony this weekend as he recovers from back surgery. The 85-year-old confirmed to ESPN that medical restrictions currently prevent him from traveling or standing for extended periods.

A Schedule of Missed Milestones

The surgery forces a quiet period for the owner, keeping him away from several key team commitments. Kraft will miss Saturday’s induction at Gillette Stadium, as well as Sunday’s home game against the Green Bay Packers. He is also unable to join the team for their upcoming trip to Munich, Germany, for a matchup against the Detroit Lions.

According to reports from ESPN, Kraft described his frustration with the timing. While he noted that the pain preceding his surgery was significant, he emphasized that missing the celebration for one of the franchise’s most decorated players is equally difficult.

Reflecting on a Decorated Career

Rob Gronkowski, who played nine seasons in New England, was elected to the Patriots Hall of Fame by fan vote in April during his first year of eligibility. The team, in coordination with Fox—where Gronkowski currently works as an analyst—arranged for the induction to take place this weekend. He will also be honored during the halftime show of the Sunday game against Green Bay.

Kraft looked back on their long-standing relationship, tracing it to the 2010 NFL Draft when the Patriots selected the Arizona standout in the second round. “I simply adore Gronk,” Kraft told ESPN. He praised the player’s community involvement, specifically his 2016 Ron Burton Community Service Award, and cited a 2014 one-handed catch against the Denver Broncos as one of the best plays he has witnessed.

Personnel Hurdles on the Field

While Kraft recovers, the franchise is simultaneously managing an injury crisis on the field. The team won their Week 8 game against the Miami Dolphins without several key contributors, including A.J. Brown, TreVeyon Henderson, Mack Hollins, Romeo Doubs, Mike Onwenu, and Alijah Vera-Tucker. Tight end Hunter Henry also exited the game against Miami with a foot injury.

Status of the Induction Weekend

The ceremony will proceed as scheduled on Saturday, and the team has maintained its plan for a halftime tribute during Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers to accommodate Gronkowski’s broadcasting schedule with Fox. Gronkowski’s tenure with New England included three Super Bowl titles, 7,861 receiving yards, and 79 regular-season touchdowns.