Star cornerback Christian Gonzalez missed the New England Patriots' victory over the Buffalo Bills in Week 4 due to a shoulder injury. It was his first missed game of the season.
Even though the Patriots were able to pull off the upset with the Texas native, it's obvious that they want him back on the field as soon as possible. Gonzalez is one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, and he's a crucial part of whatever success New England will ultimately have this year. He has been fantastic to start the season, and the Patriots will greatly benefit from his eventual return.
Whether that happens on Sunday or not remains to be seen, as Gonzo is still dealing with a shoulder injury, and his status against the Las Vegas Raiders is still up in the air.
Here are the latest injury updates regarding Gonzalez's availability for Week 5.
Latest Christian Gonzalez injury updates for Week 5
Gonzalez did not participate in Wednesday's practice, and it remains to be seen if he will be available at all for Thursday's practice, even in a limited capacity.
Given that Gonzalez didn't practice at all last week before missing the game against Buffalo, it's fair to be a bit concerned about his status for Sunday's game. And that's especially true given that Carlton Davis also didn't participate in Wednesday's practice.
New England has dealt with injuries all season long, especially on the defensive side of the ball. In addition to Gonzalez and Davis, players like Harold Landry, Christian Barmore, Dre'Mont Jones, Charles Woods, and Craig Woodson have all dealt with injuries (whether they have missed time or haven't been full participants in practice).
While the Patriots obviously want Gonzalez back on the field as soon as possible, they also need to play it safe with him. There is no reason to rush him back (especially against the Raiders; no offense, but their No. 1 receiver is Tre Tucker. I like Tucker, but the Patriots would probably be fine if Gonzo sits this one out), especially since they still do have playoff aspirations and need to play the long game.
Regardless, Gonzalez's status for Week 5 will be worth monitoring. If he is unable to go, then his next opportunity to suit up will be next Sunday, when the Patriots take on the New York Jets (who are averaging 202 passing yards per game -- 18th-best in the NFL) for the first time this season.
Add us as a preferred source on Google