The 2025 season began with the Patriots having a more questionable defense than most imagined, with the biggest proponent of that being cornerback Christian Gonzalez's absence. He suffered an injury at practice on July 28 and hasn't returned since, with rumors suggesting he dealt with a setback during his recovery from the initial hamstring injury.
Mike Vrabel hasn't had much to say about his return to the field except implying there is a chance that he could be back sooner rather than later. That was the thought going into their Week 2 matchup against the Dolphins, particularly because Gonzalez showed support for his teammates during their Week 1 contest.
On top of that, their unexpected decision to release training camp star D.J. James had many believing it was a corresponding move due to Gonzalez's impending return. However, that wasn't the case, and we're still waiting for the cornerback to return.
Fortunately, Vrabel provided somewhat of an update on Monday morning that gives a little bit of optimism heading into a big-time matchup with the Steelers next week.
Mike Vrabel continues to withhold more information on Christian Gonzalez's return
During his weekly appearance on WEEI's "The Greg Hill Show," Vrabel was quickly asked about whether Gonzalez could return this week, as the cornerbacks continue to struggle in his absence, but the head coach provided a short answer that doesn't clarify much.
Chance we see Christian Gonzalez back this week? #nfl @WEEI
Did Vrabel think Maye was more composed against Miami, than Week 1 against Raiders? Did Drake play less "cautious"? pic.twitter.com/MbINlOmchB
— The Greg Hill Show (@TheGregHillShow) September 15, 2025
While it's certainly good to hear that there is a possibility we will see the Pro Bowler make his debut this week, Vrabel's answer doesn't exactly provide a whole lot of confidence that the chance is high.
He further clarified when speaking to the media shortly thereafter, reiterating that there is a chance and they'll test out what Gonzalez can do throughout the week.
#Patriots HC Mike Vrabel on if Christian Gonzalez will play:
"It's a chance. It's a chance that a lot of things could happen. And it's Monday, and we'll figure out how he progresses along the week, and we'll see what he can do, and have him do what he can do."
(🎥: @Patriots) pic.twitter.com/QqRBhsl7l2
— New England Sports Fellow (@NESportsFellow) September 15, 2025
There's also the possibility that if he does practice, he might not suit up for Sunday's contest. He hasn't practiced with the team in seven weeks, so a few days back on the field ahead of a crucial AFC matchup might not be enough unless he appears to have made no break in his performance.
That will be important given how much the players playing in his place are struggling, which we saw again on Sunday with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. It won't be any easier this Sunday with players like D.K. Metcalf and Jaylen Warren fighting to make plays, so Gonzalez's return would be welcomed.
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