Fantasy Football: Rob Gronkowski tells teammates he's playing Thursday

FOXBOROUGH, Mass., Sept. 22 (UPI) -- Could the anxiety be over for Rob Gronkowski's fantasy football owners?

The answer is yes, if you ask Gronk. But the New England Patriots tight end isn't the person with the final say on if he suits up Thursday night against the Houston Texans.

According to the Boston Globe's Ben Volin, Gronkowski has "been telling teammates all week that he plans to make his 2016 debut" Thursday night. While his hamstring's healing process has been cloudy, it is not nearly as murky as the Patriots' quarterback carousel. The Patriots are preparing wide receiver Julian Edelman as its back up quarterback, behind third-stringer Jacoby Brissett. Despite Tom Brady's four-game DeflateGate suspension, the Patriots have managed two wins in two weeks of Jimmy Garoppolo starts.

Still, Gronkowski is the unquestioned top tight end play this week, and every other week, with his unmatched size, speed, and athleticism at the position. The 27-year-old All-Pro is listed as questionable and is still considered a game-time call.

NFL Network National Insider Ian Rapoport said Thursday morning that there is a "real chance" Gronkowski suits up. Gronk has been limited in practice for the last three weeks.

The Texans have been one of the best teams against tight ends this season, allowing the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game to the position. I still expect starter-worthy performances from both Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett.