New England Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez was named a finalist for the Associated Press’ Comeback Player of the Year Award on Thursday.
He only played four games due to injury in 2023, but he bounced back in a big way in 2024.
He played in 13 games in the season, recording 59 tackles and two interceptions. The former Oregon standout was often matched up with some of the best receivers in the NFL and was able to shut them down. He was named to the AP All-Pro Second Team this season.
Gonzalez fully established himself as the No. 1 cornerback and a cornerstone defender for the Patriots. He will be a key piece for the team moving forward in a new era under coach Mike Vrabel.
Patriots CB Christian Gonzalez is a finalist for the AP Comeback Player of the Year award.
Second-team All-Pro season after missing 13 games in 2023.
His competition: Bengals QB Joe Burrow, Vikings QB Sam Darnold, Chargers RB J.K. Dobbins, Bills S Damar Hamlin.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) January 23, 2025
Gonzalez is already considered one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, despite this only being his second season. Now, it’s about taking the next step.