Although there was some hope that Christian Gonzalez would return to Patriots practice last week since he was on the sideline for their season opener against the Raiders, the cornerback did not return and was ruled out of their Week 2 contest against the Dolphins days before they headed to Miami.
It's an undesirable way for their defense to start, as he has been their shutdown corner since he was drafted two years ago and was expected to help lead a dominant secondary duo alongside free agent signee Carlton Davis III.
Rumors have suggested that he had a setback with his hamstring injury, causing him to miss more time, and the Patriots continue to deal with the consequences of his absence on the field, with the latest example being the easy touchdown scored by Jaylen Waddle on Sunday.
The Patriots continue to miss Christian Gonzalez in big defensive moments this season
Serving in Gonzalez's place as a starter is Alex Austin, a young player who had an impressive season in 2024 to earn the right to take over in the Pro Bowler's absence.
He looked far from the player they needed during the Dolphins' second drive, as he allowed an 18-yard touchdown to Jaylen Waddle, bringing Miami closer to the Patriots' leading score.
Tua finds Jaylen Waddle for six!
— NFL (@NFL) September 14, 2025
NEvsMIA on CBS/Paramount+https://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/Mbvz4RbAU4
It was just the latest example of how much Gonzalez is missed on the field.
The hope is he will be able to return sooner rather than later, but Mike Vrabel hasn't provided much of an update on what is really going on with his hamstring. The assumption is that he has suffered a setback and that's why he has been unable to practice with the team since July 28, but no clarity has been given to settle the debate.
It's beyond clear that the Patriots need him back in the lineup, especially after last week, when the secondary allowed six completions of 20+ yards, and their defense would be far stronger with him there. The wide receiver groups coming up on the schedule are only going to be tougher than what they've already faced, so the idea of Gonzalez remaining sidelined is not providing much comfort for the weeks ahead.