Rob Gronkowski Injury Update: Super Bowl Status for the Tight End

New England Patriots' tight end Rob Gronkowski is expected to play in the Super Bowl, but his high-ankle sprain is serious, according to agent Drew Rosenhaus.

During a Thursday radio show interview, Rosenhaus claimed the injury is so bad that if it wasn't the Super Bowl, Gronkowski definitely would be sidelined.

While the Patriots complete their final practice on Friday before the Super Bowl, head coach Bill Belichick claimed that Gronkowski had not suffered any setbacks and practiced on a limited basis.

I think he was OK this morning, said Belichick, on Friday. We're certainly moving in the right direction.

Gronkowksi is an important weapon in the Patriots' attack. The second-year star had a Pro Bowl season, catching 90 passes for 1,327 yards. Along with Aaron Hernandez, Gronkowski has helped form one of the best tight end duos in NFL history in the 2011 season.

Before Thursday's practice, Gronkowski said the final decision on whether he plays in Super Bowl XLVI will come down to him and the medical staff.

It's my body and I know how I feel the best, Gronkowski said. I just communicate with the trainers on how I feel, what they think, and we just put all our knowledge together so we can get the best possible situation.

Gronkowski suffered the injury against the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC title game.