New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft will not attend the Hall of Fame induction ceremony for former tight end Rob Gronkowski on Thursday as he continues to recover from back surgery, the team announced.
Gronkowski, who spent nine seasons with the Patriots and won four Super Bowls, is being honored with induction into the franchise's Hall of Fame. Kraft's absence marks a rare miss for the longtime owner, who has been a constant presence at major team events.
The Patriots did not specify a timeline for Kraft's return to public appearances.

