NFL Player News

Sunday, May 19

• 05/19/13 - 10:16AM ETRob Gronkowski : Procedure On Tap Monday

  Gronkowski is slated to undergo a fourth procedure on his left forearm Monday, the Boston Herald reports.

  Gronkowski, who also may need back surgery this offseason, must first have his arm issue addressed, with Monday's procedure slated to determine whether or not the infection in his arm has completely cleared up. If so, the next step would entail replacing the plate currently in his forearm with a new one. Once that happens, the tight end is looking at a 10-11 week recovery period. In any case, things will need to proceed smoothly (with both his arm and back) going forward in order for Gronkowski to be ready to go come Week 1, with his prognosis on that front hopefully on tap to become a little clearer in the coming days.

Friday, May 17

• 05/17/13 - 1:23PM ETBruce Irvin : Suspended Four Games

  Irvin has been suspended for the first four games of the 2013 season for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing substance policy, the Everett Herald reports.

  Irvin admitted he took a banned substance without medical exemption and will not appeal the suspension. The Seahawks will miss his pass-rushing for the first month of the season, as Irvin recorded eight sacks in 2012, setting a franchise rookie record.

• 05/17/13 - 12:38PM ETRob Gronkowski : Could Require Back Surgery

  Gronkowski underwent an MRI on his back and may require surgery to correct a disc issue.

  Gronkowski is already dealing with complications from arm surgery, and he is undergoing a fourth surgery on his arm next week. Gronkowski is scheduled to meet with a spine specialist following the procedure to determine whether or not surgery will be required on his back. In 2009, he underwent surgery to "shave down" a disc in his back, but the present issue is not believed to be related.

Thursday, May 16

• 05/16/13 - 6:14AM ETJoe Webb : Moving to Wide Receiver

  Webb has been moved to wide receiver from quarterback for the Vikings, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

  Webb played wide receiver his sophomore year at Alabama-Birmingham and began his pro career at receiver before being moved back to quarterback. It's not clear if he'll get much playing time as he'll be down on the depth chart, but it's possible the Vikings could design several plays for him since he's got impressive speed (4.44 in the 40-yard dash) and would be a threat for trick plays since he can throw. He'll also offer a quandary for many fantasy leagues since his position eligibility between QB and WR may be uncertain.