Following a disappointing 28-22 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 11, the New England Patriots received concerning news regarding cornerback Christian Gonzalez’s availability for Week 12.
While offensive lineman Cole Strange is set to make his season debut after recovering from a knee injury sustained in 2023, the team may have to face the Miami Dolphins without Gonzalez.
According to ESPN’s Field Yates, Gonzalez is listed as questionable due to a hip injury that limited his practice participation. “Christian Gonzalez was limited in practice today due to a hip injury and is now questionable to play on Sunday. He’s been their best defensive player this season,” Yates reported.
Gonzalez, expected to match up against Dolphins star receiver Tyreek Hill, would be a significant loss for the Patriots’ defense. In their Week 5 meeting, Gonzalez largely covered Hill, limiting him to three receptions on six targets for 55 yards.
Although the Dolphins won 15-10, Gonzalez’s strong performance kept the game competitive. His impact has been a cornerstone of head coach Jerod Mayo’s defense throughout the 2024 season.
The potential absence of Gonzalez is even more concerning after the Patriots surprisingly waived cornerback Marco Wilson.
Gonzalez has tallied four tackles in the loss to the Rams, along with six pass deflections and an interception this season.
If unavailable, the Patriots will likely rely on Jonathan Jones, Marcus Jones, and newly activated backup Alex Austin to manage Hill’s offensive threat.
In addition, nose tackle Jaquelin Roy (neck) has been officially ruled out for Week 12.
