Gronkowski misses fourth straight practice with ankle sprain

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Rob Gronkowski still hasn't practiced with the New England Patriots for the Super Bowl, sidelined by a high left ankle sprain four days before the game against the New York Giants.

"He's day to day," coach Bill Belichick said after Wednesday's practice. "He's getting better, but we'll just take it day to day."

The All-Pro tight end hasn't worked out with his teammates in Indianapolis. The Patriots practiced Monday and Wednesday and held meetings and film sessions Tuesday. Gronkowski also missed the last two practices in Foxborough, Mass., on Thursday and Friday.

Gronkowski, who set an NFL single-season record for the position with 17 touchdown receptions, was hurt late in the third quarter of the 23-20 win over the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC championship game Jan. 22.

He had worn a protective boot for a week until shedding it Monday. He said at Tuesday's media day his ankle was improving daily. But he wouldn't say if he would play Sunday.

The Patriots practiced in helmets and shells for 2 1-2 hours on Wednesday.

"We had our moments, some good ones and some things we've got to work on," Belichick said. "They're trying. They're working hard. We've got a ways to go, though.

"We've had a little bit of extra time to prepare, so we hit all the areas. I thought we had good tempo and good timing. We'll back down a little bit the next couple of days."

Offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer practiced on a limited basis after missing the past seven games with back and foot problems.

"He did a little bit today," Belichick said. "We'll see how he does tomorrow."

Left tackle Matt Light participated in the entire practice after dealing with an illness upon arriving in Indianapolis on Sunday evening.

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