Days ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Patriots reconvened in Foxboro for the start of voluntary minicamp, and beyond the inevitable focus on what Mike Vrabel's first comments were going to be in the midst of the Dianna Russini scandal, there was a particular interest in who would, and wouldn't, show up for the practices.
It was noteworthy that wide receiver Kayshon Boutte was absent, mainly because of the recent trade rumors suggesting he might be moved this offseason. But perhaps the most interesting of all was seeing cornerback Christian Gonzalez in attendance, despite the ongoing conversations about a much-deserved extension.
Patriots analysts and insiders have suggested that Gonzalez and the team could reach an impasse over the next few months if no extension is agreed upon, which could result in the Pro Bowler holding out until a deal is made.
He's set to make just under $3 million for the 2026 season, far lower than a cornerback of his caliber should be making, so it wouldn't be at all surprising if he waited until he knew he was going to be paid for his hard work.
At least for the time being, that's not a concern for the Patriots' staff.
Christian Gonzalez showing up to minicamp is a good sign for the Patriots future
So far this offseason, the Patriots have not exactly gone about extension talks with Gonzalez in the way many fans had hoped. Although they've made their desires to keep him around public on several occasions, their actions haven't lived up to their word.
It took far too long for the team to announce that they were picking up his fifth-year option, and Eliot Wolf revealed negotiations on an extension haven't really taken place just yet.
That might not be totally concerning right now, but it can easily become a problem throughout the summer, or even before that, especially if other cornerbacks who aren't viewed as highly as Gonzalez reach a deal with their teams in the meantime.
That has already happened with guys like Trent McDuffie, and the longer the Patriots wait, the worse it will get for their wallet. So it's better to get an extension done sooner rather than later in that regard, and to avoid any rift building between the organization and Gonzalez.
The hope is that the higher-ups will ensure that things won't get too out of hand, and with Gonzalez present for voluntary workouts, it's a sign of good faith that he's still willing to participate, and the Patriots need to not take advantage of that.
It's clear how much the defense needs him on the field, and playing around with a worthy extension only risks what their roster could look like in Week 1.
Add us as a preferred source on Google