What happened: New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft is recovering from back surgery and will miss Rob Gronkowski's Patriots Hall of Fame induction on Saturday. Kraft stated the recovery process will keep him on what he described as injured reserve. The development was reported Thursday by Mike Reiss.

Why it matters: Gronkowski won three Super Bowl titles in New England during Kraft's ownership and represents one of the franchise's defining figures. Kraft's absence marks a rare missed milestone for a major team ceremony honoring a cornerstone of the Patriots' championship era.

What to watch: Gronkowski's induction into the franchise Hall of Fame will proceed Saturday at Gillette Stadium.