Report: Gronkowski likely to play vs. Patriots after X-rays on ribs negative

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski will likely be ready for his Sunday night return to New England to face his former team in the Patriots after X-rays on his ribs came back negative, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Gronkowski left Sunday's loss to the Los Angeles Rams after taking a big hit but later returned to the game.

The 32-year-old has put together a strong start to the season, recording two touchdowns in each of the first two games. Gronkowski also had 55 yards on four catches against the Rams despite his limited snaps.

Tom Brady and Gronkowski will head to New England for the first time as members of the Buccaneers in next Sunday's prime-time matchup.

Gronkowski established himself as one of the greatest players at his position in NFL history while with the Patriots.

He set the all-time single-season record for touchdowns by a tight end in 2011 with 17 and was a critical piece in New England's three Super Bowl wins during his nine seasons with the team.