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yesterday

Christian Gonzalez’s 49-Snap Return Lifts Patriots’ Secondary in 42-13 Rout

Team leaders signaled a cautious ramp-up given the re-injury risk of hamstring strains.

Christian Gonzalez returned to the field on Sunday.
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Foxboro, MA -New England Patriots' Christian Gonzalez keeps an eye on Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young during the third quarter of the game at Gillette Stadium. (Nancy Lane/Boston Herald)
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Overview

  • Active for the first time this season, the All-Pro cornerback debuted in Week 4 after a July 28 hamstring strain cost him training camp and the first three games.
  • Gonzalez played 49 of 69 defensive snaps (71%) with no apparent in-game restrictions, allowing two catches on three targets for 31 yards and recording three tackles.
  • He frequently matched with Panthers rookie Tetairoa McMillan as New England held Carolina to 208 passing yards in a comprehensive win at Gillette Stadium.
  • Head coach Mike Vrabel called the performance good for a first game back and said it can improve, emphasizing continued work and conditioning.
  • His return restored the defense to full strength and helped the Patriots move to 2-2, with workload monitoring expected heading into a tougher road test at Buffalo.