The Patriots had 3 big areas of need entering the 2023 NFL Draft. Offensive tackle, wide receiver, and cornerback. New England not only filled one of those needs but in the process got what many considered to be a top 10 value and the consensus best player at his position in cornerback Christian Gonzalez out of Oregon.
Not only did the patriots land Gonzalez but they did so after trading down from 14th to 17th, and adding a 4th round pick to boot (120 overall.)
Christian Gonzalez, meet Patriots Nation ❤️?@chrisgonzo28 | #ForeverNE pic.twitter.com/luvVHRVqyv
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) April 28, 2023
Last season, Gonzalez finished with four interceptions and 11 passes defensed, earning All Pac 12 honors. Gonzalez clocked a 4.38 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and has excelled in man-to-man coverage.
Here’s what CLNS draft expert Taylor Kyles wrote about Gonzalez prior to the draft.,
Patriots perspective: A First Team All-Pac 12 selection who led his team in both interceptions and passes defensed last season, Gonzalez has the size, athleticism, and intelligence to become a Pro Bowler before his second contract. He’s at his best playing press man coverage on the boundary, but Gonzalez has the instincts and ball skills to excel in zone coverage, as well as experience bumping into the slot. He’s also a physical, high-effort run defender, traits New England likes in their top corners. Gonzalez is unlikely to make it out of the top 10, but he’d be a scheme-changing presence capable of matching up and competing with any receiver type.
