The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... According to Boston Herald staffer Karen Guregian, Gronkowski said he's been at Patriots' offseason program doing core work and he's no longer wearing a walking boot on his surgically-repaired ankle.

Diehards Line:At this point, Gronkowski continues to move forward in his recovery and rehabilitation as well -- or even better than hoped. Assuming there are no setbacks, Gronkowski's ankle should allow him to work at full speed well in advance of training camp -- perhaps even in time to take part in OTAs.