Overview
- Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez praised Jaxon Smith-Njigba as an elite, versatile route runner and said he is preparing the same way despite the bigger stage.
- Smith-Njigba led the NFL with 1,793 receiving yards on 119 catches with 10 touchdowns and followed with 172 playoff yards, including 153 in the NFC title game.
- Gonzalez elevated in the postseason with 15 tackles, four passes defended, and a late AFC Championship interception, anchoring a defense allowing 8.7 points and 210 yards per game in the playoffs.
- Analytics cited by reporters show Seahawks receiver targets drop from 78.0% versus man to 56.1% versus zone, underscoring expectations Gonzalez could shadow Smith-Njigba if New England leans man.
- Reuters notes Gonzalez will be the first player of Colombian heritage to play in a Super Bowl, adding a personal milestone to the matchup.