Since he was selected in the first round of the 2023 draft, Christian Gonzalez has quickly become one of the best players on the Patriots roster, not just their defense. Even missing most of his rookie season, he has ascended into the conversation of the fastest rising stars in the league, further proving just how valuable he has become to the team in a short amount of time.
That's what made the addition of Carlton Davis III even more exciting in free agency earlier this year, because they could easily have a dominant cornerback duo to lead their secondary. But we are yet to see that in action, since Gonzalez has been dealing with a hamstring injury that has had him sidelined since July 28.
The opening game against the Raiders proved just how much he is missed, which was only further proven in their efforts against the Dolphins.
Alex Austin, who is filling in as the starter in Gonzalez's absence, had stood out during the 2024 season for his impressive production. But he has been exposed so far this season, and his performance against the Dolphins made it beyond obvious that they need more help or risk losing more games due to the underwhelming defense.
Tyreek Hill just recorded a 47-yard catch.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) September 14, 2025
That's his first catch over 30 yards since Week 1 of 2024.
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Fans began immediately calling for reinforcements, with one name in particular leading the charge: Stephon Gilmore.
The Patriots' secondary is in desperate need of help with Christian Gonzalez remaining sidelined
Although he is 34 years old and spent the offseason not on a team, there are plenty of reasons for the Patriots to get on the phone with Gilmore and see if he'd be willing to join the team.
He has made it clear that he is willing to wait for the right situation, preferably a contender, which the Patriots are not even close to being. However, he has also spoken about his desire to return to New England before he decides to retire, and based on the apparent lack of interest in other teams signing him, that might be closer than anyone anticipated.
The former Defensive Player of the Year has played for four teams in the last four years, but has remained a starter each season. His production has barely wavered, and he could be an instant boost to the Patriots' defense and give them some insurance with Gonzalez remaining out, with no end in sight.
Considering the list of free agent cornerbacks at this point in the season is nothing thrilling, Gilmore is easily the best option and would bring the kind of boost the secondary needs, especially one as young as the Patriots.
At the very least, Mike Vrabel and Co. should get on the phone to gauge his interest, and if it's not mutual, strongly consider another option, even out of desperation.