The New England Patriots had a golden opportunity to exact revenge on the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1, but three interceptions from their usually superb quarterback, Drake Maye, sealed the deal for the Seahawks.
On the plus side, Gordon McGuinness of PFF named Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez to his Week 1 NFL Team of the Week in the FLEX: CB category.
The Patriots' loss was a massive disappointment since the team snatched defeat from the proverbial jaws of victory. Instead of a real NFL statement win, it was a terrible loss that the team must rebound from immediately in Week 2, in the home opener against Pittsburgh.
Thankfully, at least one of their players earned PFF for his play. It's a testament to Gonzalez stepping up on defense, while the offense, after losing A.J. Brown for the game and for an extended period, struggled mightily with turnovers.
Christian Gonzalez has already shown why he deserved to be the highest-paid cornerback ever
As everyone knew, Gonzalez had just signed a massive $135M contract, making him the highest-paid Patriot and cornerback in the NFL. He immediately began justifying it with his play on the field. He delivered, and PFF recognized it. It's exactly what you'd have hoped for from your best defensive player.
PFF's article outlines why Gonzalez made the grade in Week 1.
"Christian Gonzalez is a cornerback for the New England Patriots who earned a 87.3 overall PFF defensive grade in the 2026 season, 3rd among 91 qualified cornerbacks. His PFF coverage grade of 86.2 ranked 3rd among 91 qualified cornerbacks. His run-defense grade of 66.3 ranked 32nd at the position. He recorded 0 interceptions on the season.
Gonzalez broke up 2 passes in coverage. He allowed a 39.6 passer rating when targeted by opposing quarterbacks. He surrendered 1 reception in coverage. He also contributed 2 solo tackles in run support and open-field situations."
It's a great sign for the Patriots that Gonzalez is already earning his mega-salary, since he'll be needed all season to cover opponents' top receivers. The rest of the defense, especially the edge players, will also have to earn their keep and get sacks to help round out the defense.
Meanwhile, though Brown's loss is a major impediment, getting the dynamic and electric TreVeyon Henderson back will be a huge boost to the offense against the Steelers.
Henderson's expected return and a less mistake-prone Maye will hopefully help the Patriots get right back on track and even their record at 1-1.
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