Chris

Gronkowski

Vaughn might not have made the Broncos, but he has quite a bit more NFL potential than Gronkowski. Rob’s much less talented brother, Gronkowski is a 6-foot-2, 245-pound lead blocker who struggles mightily in pass protection and has seven career receptions over two seasons. Fullbacks haven’t been historically used much in Peyton Manning’s offenses, so the move is a bit curious on Denver’s part. Gronkowski will battle for a roster spot in camp.

Gronkowski suffered a torn pectoral muscle against the Saints. Mostly a special teamer, Gronkowski failed to record a single carry or reception in seven games.

Gronkowski, 26, was acquired from Indianapolis for CB Cassius Vaughn last May and wound up playing only 40 snaps on offense. The original-pick tender would have cost $1.323 million, and Denver doesn’t think Gronkowski is worth that much.

The older brother of Rob, Chris was not tendered by the Broncos as a restricted free agent. The Chargers would be an odd fit as veteran Le’Ron McClain is locked into the fullback spot, though McClain does have a $2.25 million salary.

Chris’ brother Rob broke the news on his Twitter account. The elder Gronk appeared in 14 games for the Broncos last season, but played just 40 snaps on offense. He’ll compete for a spot on special teams, though he could replace Le’Ron McClain if the Bolts decide his $2.25 million salary is too extravagant.

Gronkowski was listed as questionable with a groin injury and did not practice all week. There are no surprises, as WR Dez Bryant and TE Jason Witten, who were both listed as probable, will be active.

Gronkowski isn’t going to get a chance to make up for his costly blunder. No. 3 TE Scott Chandler is expected to handle fullback duties. Other Cowboys inactives: QB Tony Romo, LB Jason Williams, OG Kyle Kosier, OG Montrae Holland, OT Jermey Parnell, WR Kevin Ogletree and DE Jason Hatcher.

Arthroscopic knee surgery had knocked Anderson out until mid-October, and the Cowboys grew tired of keeping him on the roster. Undrafted rookie Chris Gronkowski will take over, though he’s struggled in lead blocking so far.