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2h ago

Patriots Rule Christian Gonzalez Out for Week 3 vs. Steelers

The team is prioritizing caution following his first limited practices since late July.

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Christian Gonzalez won't be putting on the pads this Sunday.
New England Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez (0) warms up against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
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Overview

  • New England downgraded the All-Pro cornerback to out on Saturday, ending any chance of a season debut on Sunday in Pittsburgh.
  • Christian Gonzalez had been listed as questionable after returning this week as a limited participant for the first time since his July 28 hamstring injury.
  • Head coach Mike Vrabel said Gonzalez was limited in practice and the staff would evaluate his status closer to kickoff before the team made its decision.
  • The Patriots’ pass defense ranks 32nd through two weeks with 630 yards allowed, and replacements Alex Austin and Marcus Jones have split outside duties, with Austin surrendering 9 catches on 12 targets for 153 yards and a touchdown per PFF.
  • Defensive end Keion White (illness) and fullback Jack Westover (hamstring) remain questionable for Sunday, while some media have criticized the clarity of earlier public updates on Gonzalez’s timeline.