The New England Patriots were able to get their first win of the season in Week 2, as they took down the Miami Dolphins, 33-27, to bounce back from their season-opening loss. Getting the win was a good first step for the Mike Vrabel era, and things only improved with Monday's positive report surrounding injured cornerback Christian Gonzalez.
The Patriots' head coach spoke with the media on Monday and said there's a "chance" that Gonzalez returns this week against the Pittsburgh Steelers. A return would be huge given that the Steelers are scoring 25.5 points per game (9th) so far.
Patriots CB Christian Gonzalez Could Return in Week 3
New England has been without Gonzalez since late July, when he suffered a hamstring injury while defending a pass route in a drill. This has lingered for several weeks, but he's taking his time to return fully healthy.
Rushing back from a hamstring injury isn't smart cause soft tissues have a knack for dragging on. As a rookie, Gonzalez tore his pec, which ended his season after just four games. He was able to return for 16 games in 2024 and flashed the ability to be a true No. 1 CB.
Gonzalez had 59 total tackles, 11 pass deflections, and two interceptions last season. According to Pro Football Focus, he had a 76.0 overall grade and a 78.2 coverage grade. New England believes their CB room can be a strength for this team with Carlton Davis taking one boundary spot, Gonzalez snagging the other, and Marcus Jones grabbing the slot.
Getting Gonzalez back would be massive for the Pats, especially since Steelers wideout DK Metcalf will be on the opposite side on Sunday. Having the young star cornerback return would give this team an emotional boost.
This week's practice sessions will be massive for Gonzalez. If he's able to return, even in a limited capacity, it would show the team that he's actually ready to roll. Even though he hasn't been cleared to return to action, defensive back coach Justin Hamilton recently said that Gonzalez is "staying engaged" behind the scenes.
The Patriots created a plan for Gonzalez to return to the field in that building, and it looks like they are finally getting momentum towards that. Vrabel stating this to the media clearly shows the team has some confidence that he's right on the verge of returning. Now everyone involved is hoping that's the truth.