New England Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez (0) against the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium.
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Many were caught off-guard after the New England Patriots signed cornerback Christian Gonzalez to a four-year, $135 million contract extension on Tuesday. After an extended wait in the offseason, Gonzalez finally got the bag.
On Wednesday against the Seattle Seahawks, Gonzalez made sure to remind everyone why he was worth every penny.
In the fourth quarter, the 24-year-old defender was matched up against Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who is considered the best in the NFL at his position. Gonzalez, however, was unfazed and swatted the ball away when Smith-Njigba was targeted by Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock.
Christian Gonzalez vs. JSN
Elite vs. Elite
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— NFL (@NFL) September 10, 2026
Gonzalez is coming off another strong campaign, which earned him his first nod to the Pro Bowl. He was very instrumental in the Patriots' run to the Super Bowl, where they lost to the Seahawks.
Fans appreciated his tough coverage of Smith-Njigba.
“JSN always gets locked by top corners,” said @AagendaSports.
“Gonzo and his son,” added @mccaffreyformvp.
“Gonzales wins again. That's my corner,” declared @23CapalotJ.
“Elite talent on both sides. No easy snaps here,” stated @vijayanest22031.
“That's why they paid the man,” commented @PITSteelerFB.
Many, however, also argued that Gonzalez grabbed the jersey of Smith-Njigba to avoid getting beat, blasting the referees for missing the call.
But even Gonzalez's solid play was not enough, as the Patriots lost to the Seahawks, 13-10. He had two tackles and two passes defended. Seattle came alive in the second half to complete the come-from-behind win.
Last season, Gonzalez logged 69 tackles, including one tackle for loss, and 10 passes defended in 14 games.