FIRST LOOK: CB Christian Gonzalez Meets Patriots Nation

New England Patriots rookie cornerback Christian Gonzalez has officially been welcomed to the team following his selection in the first round in the 2023 NFL Draft.

FOXBORO -- Less than 24 hours after he was selected with pick No. 17 in the 2023 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots officially introduced cornerback Christian Gonzalez to the region on Friday.  

Taking the Gillette Stadium field for the first time as a member of the Patriots, the 20-year-old was initiated into the Foxboro fold by team owner and chairman Robert Kraft, as well as team president Jonathan Kraft. Before presenting with a Patriot blue jersey adorning his name for what has become the traditional rookie photo-op, the elder Kraft made it clear that the Pats are an improved team for having secured Gonzalez's services. 

“I think last night, the New England Patriots got better,” Kraft said. 

Christian Gonzalez officially introduced as the newest member of the #Patriots. pic.twitter.com/MnVsycssDP

— Evan Lazar (@ezlazar) April 28, 2023

Originally projected as a possible top-10 selection, Gonzalez surprisingly found himself falling to the Pats, who actually traded down three spots with the Pittsburgh Steelers before choosing the highly-touted Ducks’ cornerback. though he may have been surprised by his Draft night fate, he is quite proud to be a New England Patriot. 

“Oh it means everything." Gonzalez told reporters on Friday. "I’m super excited to come in and get to work and learn from the hall-of-fame coaches. I can’t ask for a much better opportunity than that.”

While there will be plenty of time for hard work. Friday evening's media meet gave Gonzalex the opportunity to reveal some elements of his personality to the fanbase which is eagerly awaiting the chance to cheer him each game day. 

For starters, he expressed an "open mind" to wearing the number '0' -- which not only was the single-digit he wore during his time as an Oregon Duck, but also is now permissible to don in the NFL. 

The day's events took on a more heartwarming tone when Gonzalez declared that his first order of business will be to express his gratitude to his parents. 

“First thing is - mom and dad," Gonzalez said. "I want to get them a house. They did so much to get me where I am, I want to give back.”

Gonzalez has the chance to become the Patriots most versatile, yet athletic corner since the departure of former All-Pro Stephon Gilmore. On the field, Gonzalez projects as the team's primary boundary cornerback from the outset of his pro career. The 20-year-old can be an asset in man coverage, as well as zone schemes. At the very least, Gonzalez believes that he will provide the Pats with a player who is ready to learn, as well as perform.

“They’re going to get a super hard worker," he said. "Somebody who is willing to learn. Someone who wants to win and compete. I’m ready.”

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