The New England Patriots haven’t had much to write home about in 2024, but Christian Gonzalez is an exception to that rule.
The defensive back has only played in 13 career games, as Gonzalez suffered a shoulder injury during week four of his rookie year.
But the sophomore corner has covered a gauntlet of number-one wideouts to near perfection when he has played.
Whether it’s using the eye test or looking at pure stats, it’s clear Gonzalez is playing at an elite level.
Just take a look at these numbers.
- Week 1 2023
- A.J. Brown: 4 REC, 47 yards
- DeVonta Smith: 2 REC, 22 yards
- Week 2 2023
- Tyreek Hill: 0 REC, 1 INT
- Jaylen Waddle: 1 REC, 15 yards
- Week 3 2023
- Garrett Wilson: 3 REC, 18 yards
- Week 1 2024
- Ja’Marr Chase: 3 REC, 15 yards
- Week 2 2024
- D.K. Metcalf: 3 REC, 24 Yards
- Week 3 2024
- Garrett Wilson: 5 REC, 25 yards, 1 TD
- Week 4 2024
- Brandon Aiyuk: 1 REC, 10 yards
Impressive numbers against some of the best receivers in the NFL, but Gonzalez has had a few less-than-ideal performances in his young career. Arguably, his two worst games in the league are his most recent ones against the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans.
In London against the Jaguars, Gonzalez allowed three catches and 71 yards when matched up with rookie wideout Brian Thomas Jr. while also giving up a two-point conversion.
Last Sunday against Tennessee, the sophomore corner matched up with Calvin Ridley and allowed three catches and 51 yards.
But if those are the “bad” games, then Gonzalez is on the right track. The corner has been responsible for highlight-worthy plays since he first stepped onto an NFL field.
For Gonzalez, it’s less about the statistics and more about getting in the win column. When asked about his most recent performance against the Jets, in which he allowed zero catches on Davante Adams, Gonzalez was more happy about the team win.
“I ain’t worried,“ Gonzalez said. “We won, man. We won.”
Gonzalez has gained the respect of some of the top receivers around the league. Miami Dolphins wideout Tyreek Hill recently praised the Patriots defender over Snapchat.
“#0 I’ll say it again this young man got a shiny future.”
It’s time to admit that Gonzalez’s play has been nothing short of elite over the past two seasons. And within the next couple of years, it won’t be surprising to find the Patriots defensive back in top cornerback conversations.
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