New England Patriots - NESN.com
Christian Gonzalez will travel with the New England Patriots for joint practices against the Minnesota Vikings this week, but his role will be limited to watching from the sideline.
The Patriots’ top cornerback has not practiced since July 28, when he sustained a hamstring injury during the team’s first padded session of training camp.
Since then, New England has taken a cautious approach, keeping him out of action to ensure he is ready for the start of the regular season.
“Before you think I’m being funny, you’ll probably see Christian in Minnesota, you won’t see him on the field probably in a uniform,” head coach Mike Vrabel said, as transcribed by Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald. “See how I did that? You’ll see him in Minnesota, but he probably won’t be practicing this week.”
The injury interrupted what had been a strong camp for the 22-year-old, who is coming off a stellar 2024 season.
Gonzalez started all 16 games he played in last year, recording 59 total tackles, two interceptions, 11 passes defended and a fumble recovery for a touchdown. He was named Second Team All-Pro, a nod to the fact he’s already among the league’s best at his position.
While Gonzalez’s absence from joint practices with the Vikings is notable, the team’s handling of the situation signals confidence he will be available when the games count.
New England opens the regular season at home against the Las Vegas Raiders, and Gonzalez’s ability to match up with top receivers will be central to the Patriots’ defensive plans.
For now, the priority is keeping one of the league’s best corners healthy, even if it means staying in street clothes for the remainder of the preseason.
