The New England Patriots have confirmed that tight end Rob Gronkowski is doubtful for their clash with the Buffalo Bills on Sunday.

The 24-year-old has missed the entire pre-season as he recovers from surgeries on his back and forearm, but he did return to practice last week.

Bill Belichick has all but deemed that the All-Pro is not fit enough to face the Bills in his side's season opener.

Meanwhile, wide receivers Danny Amendola and Aaron Dobson have been given the statuses of probable and questionable respectively ahead of the clash at Ralph Wilson Stadium.