Preseason preview: top-5 Patriots rookie spotlights

CB Christian Gonzalez

The first round of the NFL Draft couldn’t have gone better for the New England Patriots. Christian Gonzalez falling to 17 wasn’t their dream scenario because it was far beyond what the Patriots could have dreamed of. Gonzalez was arguably the best corner in the draft, and he ended up being the third corner selected.

Gonzalez is the number one corner the Patriots had missed since J.C. Jackson and has the potential to become a shutdown corner, which New England hasn’t had since Stephon Gilmore, who the Patriots allegedly wanted back. Gonzalez has the size, speed, and quickness to cover all types of receivers. With the talent at receiver in the AFC East, a player like Gonzalez is absolutely necessary.

Since day one of training camp, Gonzalez has played with the first-team defense. There is no doubt what the Patriots expect from the former Oregon Duck. He’s been having a typical rookie camp with some impressive wins and some losses to learn from. Gonzalez vs. DeVante Parker apparently has been a very entertaining competition.

Which is good for Gonzalez as it prepares him for Thursday night. Whether the Houston Texans play their starters or not, they have a talented and versatile receiving corps that should challenge Gonzalez. It will be a great baptism by fire.

Ideally, Gonzalez plays a majority of the game. He’s a rookie and needs the reps. It will be a great test of his coverage abilities and a chance to show he’s a better tackler than what his scouting report said.