Overview

• Gonzalez was the lone non-participant on the Patriots’ Wednesday injury report, extending an absence that began with a July 28 hamstring injury.
• Vrabel said he is not ruling Gonzalez out and noted the cornerback is working on the side while staying engaged in meetings and walkthroughs.
• The coach previously acknowledged the recovery has not progressed as hoped, stressing players must be able to perform and protect themselves before returning.
• If Gonzalez cannot play against the Raiders, Alex Austin is the likely outside replacement opposite Carlton Davis, with Marcus Jones and D.J. James also in the mix.
• Official game statuses arrive Friday ahead of Sunday’s 1 p.m. ET kickoff, with challenging receiver matchups looming later in September if Gonzalez remains out.