The New England Patriots picked up a 16-3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday night, meaning they have to turn their attention to their upcoming divisional round matchup. Right off the bat, all eyes are fixated on star cornerback Christian Gonzalez’s injury status.
Gonzalez enjoyed a standout performance against the Chargers, as he did not allow a single reception when he was the closest defender in coverage, while also racking up a pair of batted passes. However, he was forced out of the game early with a head injury.
Anytime a player is ruled out of a game prematurely because of a head injury, that typically implies that they have landed in the concussion protocol. Sure enough, head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed on Monday morning that Gonzalez was in the NFL’s concussion protocol.
“Patriots HC Mike Vrabel says Pro Bowl CB Christian Gonzalez is in concussion protocol after last night’s game. One to watch ahead of the Divisional Round vs. PIT or HOU,” Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team shared in a post on X.
With another huge game right around the corner, Gonzalez’s status has suddenly become one of the biggest storylines in New England. With imposing receivers like Nico Collins or DK Metcalf set to come to town, that will make having Gonzalez on the field extremely important.
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After the game, Gonzalez briefly said he was fine, but he is going to have to battle to get himself out of the protocol in time for the team’s next game. The Patriots will face off against the winner of the Pittsburgh Steelers/Houston Texans Monday night game in the divisional round of the playoffs.
Featured image via Eric Canha/Imagn Images
