Christian Gonzalez on track for big payday after recent cornerback contracts

The Patriots have some big financial decisions on the horizon, chief among them the contract of Pro-Bowl cornerback Christian Gonzalez.

Eligible for an extension after the completion of the 2025 season, Gonzalez is on track to be among the highest-paid cornerbacks in the NFL on his next contract. That became clear this week, after news that the Houston Texans signed their own young star corner, Derek Stingley Jr., to a three-year extension with an APY of $30 million -- and $89 million of the $90M total guaranteed.

The third overall pick in the 2022 draft, Stingley has emerged as one of the best outside cornerbacks in the league, earning First Team All-Pro honors for the first time in his career in 2024. Gonzalez, meanwhile, was named to the Pro Bowl in his sophomore season with the Patriots, playing 16 games while consistently demonstrating his elite athleticism and coverage skills.

If Gonzalez can stay healthy and play another full season in 2025, he will likely present the Pats with a big decision once he's eligible for an extension. He will have a case to approach Stingley's $30 million APY if he can put together an All-Pro campaign as the Pats' clear No. 1 corner.

The Patriots may find themselves deciding whether to give their prized defender a significant payday, or trade him away for draft capital before he would walk as a free agent. The same situation is quite possibly coming with quarterback Drake Maye, but if he establishes himself as a true franchise guy, he would be a must-sign because of the position he plays. For Gonzalez, it would be more of a consideration whether to simply pay him or reset the position with another high draft pick.

Gonzalez's level of interest in a top-of-the-market contract will also play a role in how this all unfolds. But further high-end play would definitely put Gonzalez in line for a big-time contract. And he might not be as much of a lock for a big extension with New England as he is to lock down opposing receivers on the field.

Matt Dolloff is a writer and digital content producer for 98.5 The Sports Hub. Read all of his articles here.

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