Patriots hit with injury scare just weeks before NFL season kicks off

NFL standout Christian Gonzalez has given the New England Patriots an injury scare after leaving Monday’s practice early with a hamstring injury, although there is optimism he’ll be ready for the start of the 2025 season.

Will Christian Gonzalez miss the start of the 2025 NFL season?

The cornerback, who is gearing up for his third year in the NFL, also failed to suit up for Tuesday’s session, with the team opting to keep him under observation to better assess the injury.

Despite the setback, the outlook is positive. Barring any further complications, Gonzalez should be available when the Patriots kick off the regular season against the Las Vegas Raiders. The Week 1 game will take place at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, September 7.

Gonzalez’s breakout year with the Patriots

23-year-old Gonzalez is coming off a breakout campaign in which he started 16 games and earned second-team All-Pro honors. He recorded two interceptions, broke up 11 passes, and returned a fumble for a touchdown in his first full NFL season after being drafted 17th overall in 2023.

His debut year in the league was cut short after he suffered a dislocated shoulder and a torn labrum, which both required surgery, in Week 4. That caused Gonzalez to be placed on injured reserve for the remainder of the season.

New England Patriots’ 2025 preseason schedule

Before the 2025 NFL season officially gets underway, the Patriots have preseason games against the Washington Commanders (Friday, August 8), the Minnesota Vikings (Saturday, August 16) and the New York Giants (Thursday, August 21).

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