Tom Brady publicly expressed support for Rob Gronkowski via email amid reports that some New England Patriots are critical of how he is returning from multiple offseason surgeries.

“All of us have seen how badly Rob wants to help us win,’’ Brady wrote. “He has definitely given all he could in practice, especially on the scout teams to replicate the other teams’ best receiver. Though they may seem insignificant during the week, they are a huge reason why teams win.’’