The Patriots won’t have All-Pro cornerback Christian Gonzalez available for their season opener.
After missing Friday’s practice, Mike Vrabel announced Gonzalez would be ruled out for Sunday’s game with the Raiders. The third-year corner has been sidelined since injuring his hamstring in late July. Vrabel said Alex Austin and Marcus Jones will look to fill the void opposite Carlton Davis in Gonzalez’s absence.
Vrabel also shared that Will Campbell will be given a questionable designation this weekend. The rookie left tackle popped up on the injury report Thursday with an ankle issue that limited him in practice.
It’s a particularly significant injury, given the lack of depth behind Campbell at tackle and the opponent this week. Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby has made four straight Pro Bowlers as one of the most disruptive defenders in the league. If Campbell is unable to go, either Vederian Lowe or rookie Marcus Bryant would start in his place.
Finally, Vrabel also shared that Jared Wilson will start at left guard. The Patriots rotated amidst a competition this summer and hadn’t officially announced a starter, but it’s Wilson’s gig to open the season.
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