Sports
Patriots Lock Up Star Cornerback Christian Gonzalez with Record-Setting Extension
The New England Patriots have reached a four-year contract extension with cornerback Christian Gonzalez, according to multiple reports. The deal is reportedly worth $135 million, including $102 million guaranteed, making Gonzalez the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history.
Gonzalez, selected 17th overall in the 2023 draft, had been pursuing a new contract throughout the offseason. His negotiations with the team went down to the wire, raising questions about whether he would be available for New England's season opener against Seattle on Thursday night. With the extension now finalized, Gonzalez is expected to take the field for the game.
The 24-year-old cornerback earned second-team AP All-Pro honors in 2024 and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2025. During the most recent regular season, he recorded 10 passes defensed across 14 games. In New England's four playoff games that postseason, Gonzalez added seven passes defensed, one forced fumble, and an interception.
The Patriots and Seahawks are scheduled to open the 2026 season on Wednesday night at 8:20 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast on NBC and Peacock.