The cornerback position is one that typically requires a loud personality. However, Christian Gonzalez is in his second year with the New England Patriots and has his own way of doing things. He’s more reserved and keeps himself. At least more so than some of the more established defenders who have made their names on the perimeter. Regardless of how vocal he is, the former Oregon Duck is already considered one of the better players at his position.
Most believe that he would have at least had an all-rookie team selection. Unfortunately, an injury cut his year short. He’s now a full off-season removed, healthy, and ready to go. This brings up an interesting first challenge for him in particular with the new season about to get underway for this team. They face the Cincinnati Bengals, who have two of the better receiving options in the league. Going up against Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase is a challenge that a lot of defenses fail.
And while the latter receiver may or may not be ready due to his contract, even with a short week he’ll be a handful. Luckily for Coach Jerod Mayo, the young talent appears unfazed and mostly unaffected by his next potential assignment. While speaking with reporters in the locker room, he offered the following insight, as shared by Patriots on CLNS Media on X:
They got the two headed monster over there…the mindset doesn’t change just based on who you’re going against…It’s a little more amped up. You get really excited to go up against that.
To a casual listener, this could be something of a contradiction. However, upon closer listening, Christian Gonzalez shows a deeper insight. Week in and week out, preparation and mentality are always the same. But preparing to face one of the big superstars of the NFL, of course, offers a unique challenge. In this case, the Week 1 opponent has two household names on its roster.
Regardless, the corner knows that his job is the same. His focus will be on playing to his strengths within the scheme to give the best chance to leave Ohio with a victory. And while he’ll try to maintain his composure and keep an even heartbeat, the excitement, and opportunity to prove himself against either Higgins or Chase is one that he is not taking for granted.
Upcoming Opportunity for Christian Gonzalez
Overall, this will be a tough test for New England. Even if the opposing number one option is unable to impact the game. Defensively, this is a team that will look to discover itself throughout the season. The structure and pieces of a good defense are still intact. But it’s unknown what this roster will bring to the table in terms of slowing opposing offenses down.
One aspect is for certain. Whether coach Mayo is the best option, Gonzalez is likely to have a Pro Bowl-worthy year before too long. Outside of the injury bugs coming back, he is to be the cornerstone of this unit for years to come. As mentioned, his approach is atypical in terms of mostly keeping to himself. And while the ‘do your job’ ideology may have officially left the building, it is a staple throughout every locker room.
His ability to balance taking everything week by week and acknowledging the greatness on the other side should serve him well throughout his career. Either way, many will have their eyes on the perimeter battle for this game. A great performance from him individually can easily overshadow other aspects. Christian Gonzalez has a chance to carve out a significant enhancement to how he’s viewed against Cincinnati.
Main Photo: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
