The New England Patriots have not started the 2026 season the way they planned. New England is now 2-2 after a thrilling road win against Buffalo in Week 4. Unfortunately, the Patriots just got a concerning injury update that suggests they could be without their best defensive player this weekend.
Cornerback Christian Gonzalez missed his fifth consecutive practice with a shoulder injury on Thursday, per Patriots reporter Mark Daniels.
Gonzalez suffered a shoulder injury in Week 3 against the Jaguars after making a physical tackle in the first quarter. He did not play in Week 4 and has missed multiple practices now ahead of Week 5. That puts his availability to play on Sunday in extreme doubt.
The 24-year-old cornerback signed a $135 million contract extension just before the start of the regular season. He's been a solid contributor in the three games he's played this year. Gonzalez racked up eight total tackles and five passes defensed in just over two games.
If Gonzalez cannot play in Week 5, New England's depth could be stretched to the breaking point. Both Carlton Davis III (neck) and Karon Prunty (hamstring) did not practice on Wednesday. In fact, Marcus Jones is the only Patriots cornerback who is not bangd up in some way, shape, or form.
At this point, there is not much hope that Gonzalez will suit up against the Raiders. However, Patriots fans should wait for the final injury report on Friday for more details.
Article Continues BelowIn the meantime, New England will try to carry over the momentum from their huge win over Buffalo into Week 5.
Patriots vs. Raiders kicks off at 1 p.m. ET on Oct. 11 from Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.