Fantasy Football: Rob Gronkowski's status trending downward, look to replace

FOXBOROUGH, Mass., Nov. 17 (UPI) -- Reports varying from a punctured lung to a "not overly serious" injury have put New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowksi's Week 11 status in question.

That status became more questionable when Gronkowski had to cancel an appearance Tuesday because he wasn't cleared to fly, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The All-Pro did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is looking like a huge question mark to travel for Week 11's matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.

Gronkowski suffered the injury after taking a big hit from Seattle Seahawks safety Earl Thomas in a loss last Sunday night.

He has 25 receptions for 540 yards and three touchdowns in seven games, but has been unreliable or inactive for fantasy owners for nearly half of the season. Look to find a replacement this week as his status is trending in a negative direction. It isn't hard to see the 7-2 Patriots sitting its most explosive and unique weapon against the 1-8 49ers. The Patriots have three divisional matchups ahead and can't afford to be without its superstar in the postseason.