After the signing of cornerback Carlton Davis III in free agency earlier this year, there was a lot of excitement about what the Patriots' secondary could do this fall, as the partnership between the veteran and Christian Gonzalez could make them the best duo in the league.
Unfortunately, we have yet to see that due to Gonzalez suffering an injury at training camp on July 28, and he hasn't returned to them since. There was some hope he would be back on the field for their Week 2 matchup against the Dolphins, but that clearly did not happen.
Mike Vrabel has been limited with his updates about Gonzalez's status, prompting more questions about a potential setback in his recovery than optimism regarding his inevitable return. We haven't heard from the cornerback himself yet, either, until Tuesday morning when he spoke to the crew at NFL Network's "Good Morning Football."
Christian Gonzalez gives his first update on his injury, even if it falls short of key information
For the first time since he injured his hamstring earlier this summer, Gonzalez provided an update, vague as it may be, about his rehab. He didn't, however, suggest a timetable for his potential return, so it might mean it's not as close as fans would hope for.
Christian Gonzalez speaking publicly about his hamstring injury for the first time:
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) September 16, 2025
“We just going day-by-day. Taking it a step at a time. Just being in the building, sitting in the meetings, doing what I can. It’s been stressful, but it’s all for a reason.”
(🎥 @gmfb) pic.twitter.com/X1pphk0Gac
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Gonzalez emphasized being around the team and attending meetings despite being unable to practice with his teammates, which is almost as crucial as taking to the field. With a new coaching staff, there's a lot to learn, and he's clearly doing all that he can to soak up the knowledge until he's able to practice again.
Vrabel hinted that he could return this week for the Patriots' big matchup against the Steelers, who are now led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers and feature the offensive firepower of D.K. Metcalf in the receiving corps.
But Boston Sports Journal's Greg Bedard isn't so sure, as he expects Gonzalez to remain sidelined for Week 3.
Will Christian Gonzalez Play this week vs Steelers?@GregABedard not to positive that happens.
— Patriots on CLNS (@PatriotsCLNS) September 16, 2025
"I still think it's doubtful that we see him this week." pic.twitter.com/5e6TRWzbmi
That's not exactly what we want to hear, considering just how much the Patriots' secondary has been struggling in Gonzalez's absence. While Davis has been playing well, those in Gonzalez's role have been far too inconsistent, allowing big chunk plays that put a lot of pressure on the offense to counteract their misses.
That won't work well against a team like Pittsburgh, with a seasoned veteran quarterback and a top receiver to work with.
It would be good if they could get Gonzalez back sooner rather than later. Fortunately, they have a less threatening matchup in Week 4 against the Panthers, so that could be a good game for him to ease back into the game if he's able to suit up.