The New England Patriots have reportedly highlighted the first week of the 2014 regular NFL season as a potential return date for Rob Gronkowski.

The tight end has been recovering from surgery after tearing two knee ligaments last season.

According to NFL Total Access, the AFC East side expect the 25-year-old to be able to take part in training camp next month, but will not do anything that might jeopardise his availability for the season opener against the Miami Dolphins in September.

Gronkowski missed the start of the 2013 season while recovering from off-season back and arm surgery.