NFL writer shares unique reasons to root for Patriots' Christian Gonzalez

When the Patriots were announced to hold the 14th overall pick in the 2023 draft, it was the only exciting part from an atrocious previous season. It was their highest draft pick in several years and ensured they would get one of the best players of the class at whatever position they chose.

The offense had been the favored unit for the pick, with many analysts pegging them to select an offensive lineman. Because the class was so deep, they would surely snag a day one starter, but Bill Belichick chose to trade the pick and eventually take a cornerback instead.

It was a decision met with mixed reactions. Many were ecstatic that the top player at the position, Christian Gonzalez, fell into their laps at pick No. 17, while others were disappointed that they neglected to address one of the most problematic parts of the team.

Those who were not thrilled with the pick had a quick change of heart once Gonzalez took the field in Week 1, as he impressed beyond expectation with his performance against the reigning NFC Champion Eagles.

His production continued over the next three games, making it easy to root for him on his way to being in the Defensive Rookie of the Year conversation. Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending injury in Week 4 against the Cowboys, which became a massive loss for the secondary.

But he's expected to be back at the start of this upcoming season, and NFL.com writer Tom Blair believes there are even more reasons to root for the young cornerback than one year ago.

NFL writer shares unique reasons to root for Patriots' Christian Gonzalez

As one of the more exciting additions to the team in recent years, it's hard to think of there being additional reasons to root for Gonzalez in his return to the field this fall. However, Blair highlights two unique points as to why the cornerback should have some extra support, one of which involves Bill Belichick.

"I'm drawn to Gonzalez for two reasons: 

1) I want to see him make good on the promise he showed in his injury-shortened debut, logging 17 tackles, three passes defensed, one pick and one sack in four games, while earning Pro Football Focus' best defensive grade among rookie corners through Week 4.

2) He's the last player Bill Belichick selected with a first-round pick. If Gonzalez is able to become "one of the best players in the game," as teammate Jonathan Jones recently predicted, that would help add a bright note to the otherwise-dour end to Belichick's tenure in New England. Belichick's legacy as one of the best coaches ever is secure, but Gonzalez has a chance to give a slight boost to the icon's final year with the Pats, and that's the kind of narrative neatness I can't resist."

Rooting for a guy to top the season before is nothing new, but it is when the player's productive season ended so abruptly and prematurely the way Gonzalez's did. He showed so much promise in just three and a half games against tough opponents, which bodes well for the Patriots' unruly season ahead.

Blair also mentions another significant reason, especially since Belichick's reputation was tarnished in the eyes of those who needed any reason to doubt his overall success as a head coach. If Gonzalez shines and becomes one of the best cornerbacks in the league, it would certainly boost Belichick's record from a draft standpoint.

Seeing how Gonzalez gets back to work will be a highlight of the 2024 season, even more so for the defense, which hopes to be as productive as it was throughout last year.

Gonzalez's return will surely put them over the top and give the Patriots one of the best secondaries in the league, which they will undoubtedly need given the strength of opponents on the docket this season.

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