FOXBORO, MA - DECEMBER 20: Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots attempts to catch a pass during the game against the Tennessee Titans at Gillette Stadium on December 20, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

Rob Gronkowski expected to play through "a good amount of pain" against Chiefs

The Patriots aren't close to full strength.

The New England Patriots will try to stave off a one-and-done appearance in the 2015 NFL playoffs when they take on the Kansas City Chiefs Saturday afternoon.

A banged up offense as it is, the Patriots will be forced to cope with Rob Gronkowski's numerous injuries (back, knee) and according to the Boston Herald, the star tight end will play through "a good amount of pain."

The Chiefs blitzed through the Houston Texans in the Wild Card round last week, 30-0.