FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- New England Patriots starting cornerback Christian Gonzalez will not play in Sunday’s season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders due to a hamstring injury, head coach Mike Vrabel announced Friday. Gonzalez, a second-team All-Pro in 2024, sustained the injury in practice on July 28 while covering wide receiver Stefon Diggs on a crossing route. He pulled up, holding the back of his left leg, and hasn’t practiced since. This absence significantly impacts the Patriots’ cornerback depth, especially considering their initial plans for a dynamic duo featuring Gonzalez and veteran Carlton Davis III. The Patriots entered the 2025 season with considerable optimism surrounding this cornerback pairing, a strategy predicated on a ‘cat coverage’ approach – a playful reference from Vrabel envisioning Gonzalez and Davis working in tandem. However, the hamstring issue has forced the coaching staff to reassess their options. Now, Vrabel indicates the Patriots may turn to Alex Austin, a player who has faced considerable challenges to reach this point in his NFL career.

Austin’s journey began as a seventh-round draft choice of the Buffalo Bills in 2023, a selection that ultimately led to his waiver placement and subsequent limited appearances. He joined the Patriots in November 2023 after being waived by the Bills at the end of training camp and later played three games for the Houston Texans. Since then, Austin has accrued 17 games (four starts) in New England, primarily serving as a top backup to Gonzalez and occasionally playing in the slot. The Patriots’ cornerback depth chart now includes additional considerations, with fourth-year pro Marcus Jones (31 games, 14 starts) and 2024 sixth-round draft pick DJ James (no career games) as potential alternatives. Gonzalez, a 2023 first-round draft pick out of Oregon, is a key player, and this season marks the first time he’ll be eligible for a contract extension.

Despite a disappointing 4-13 season, Gonzalez showcased flashes of brilliance, particularly in his rookie season, where he was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for September. During the 2024 season, he started the first 16 games, demonstrating a strong individual performance that stood out amidst the team’s struggles. His statistics – 59 tackles, 11 passes defended, and 2 interceptions – were impressive, culminating in a remarkable fumble recovery returned for a 63-yard touchdown. However, he missed the final game due to a concussion, as reported in the team’s injury report. Furthermore, starting left tackle Will Campbell, the first-round pick from LSU, is listed as questionable for the game due to an ankle injury. Campbell was added to the injury report Thursday as a limited participant.

The situation underscores the challenges the Patriots face in maintaining a healthy roster, particularly at a critical position. Vrabel’s emphasis on player development and utilizing all available options will be crucial as the team navigates this early-season hurdle. The team’s ability to adapt and rely on players like Austin and Jones will be a significant factor in determining their success.