Patriots sign CB Christian Gonzalez to historic $135 million contract

Ariana Pensy, Touchdown WireTue, September 8, 2026 at 5:41 PM UTC

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Less than 48 hours before their season opener, the New England Patriots signed Pro Bowl cornerback Christian Gonzalez to a four-year, $135 million contract extension that will keep him with the Patriots through 2031.

New England drafted Gonzalez back in 2023 with the No. 17 overall pick. He missed most of his rookie year after suffering a torn labrum and dislocated shoulder in Week 4. However, he returned in 2024, playing in 16 games with two interceptions, a scoop-and-score, and 59 total tackles. Last season was another strong year, with 10 passes defended and his first Pro Bowl selection.

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This record-breaking contract makes Gonzalez the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history in total contract value and average annual value.  His $102 million in guaranteed money also surpasses Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon for the most guaranteed money for a corner in NFL history.

Another reason this is a historic contract is that this is the first time the Patriots have signed a first-round pick to a contract extension since D’Onta Hightower, whom they drafted in 2012.  Quarterback Drake Maye will be due for his extension after this season.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Patriots sign CB Christian Gonzalez to historic $135 million contract

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Source: “AOL Sports”