Patriots' Christian Gonzalez: Defensive Rookie of Year Candidate?

New England Patriots' cornerback Christian Gonzalez in among those in contention for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

It's a beautiful time for the NFL. Training camps are underway as players compete for jobs and every team is undefeated.

The New England Patriots are taking the back fields of Gillette Stadium, with an exciting roster and a healthy attitude after an offseason of changes, highlighted by a new offensive coordinator in Bill O'Brien.

Coach Bill Belichick looks to lead the Patriots back to the playoffs with key additions, including first-round cornerback Christian Gonzalez, defensive end Keion White and offseason standout LB/DB Marte Mapu.

All enter training camp with high expectations. But New England has the highest hopes for Gonzalez, whom they believe will emerge as a starter sooner rather than later. 

Gonzalez's physical play is one reason why NFL.com ranked him as the No. 7 candidate for 2023 Defensive Rookie of the Year. Houston Texans' Will Anderson Jr. is the frontrunner with the best-odds to win the prestigious award this season as the "most polished pass-rush prospect" in his class.

"Gonzalez was my favorite cornerback in this year’s draft," NFL.com writes. "However, this award typically rewards takeaways and splash plays, which might not be his strength as a rookie. Gonzalez enters the league with the size, length, speed and fluidity that every team covets in a CB1. If he can develop better instincts in Bill Belichick’s system, he might be able to unlock that immense potential earlier than expected."

Gonzalez finished his 2022 season at Oregon with 35 tackles, four interceptions and seven passes-defensed. He also excelled on special teams, having played on Oregon’s punt-return unit and field-goal block coverages.

Gonzalez is the son of a semiprofessional basketball player and brother of two sisters who were track and field All-Americans. In high school, he was a talented receiver, returner and 200-meter sprinter.

Last season, Sauce Gardner won 2022 Defensive Rookie of the Year. Could another cornerback win it this season?

The former kings of the AFC East are still looking to capture their first division title since 2016. If Gonzalez can ascend quickly, it will certainly help New England's chances. 

It all starts now in training camp!

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