Karen Guregian: The Christian Gonzalez contract situation is officially a big deal

WORCESTER – Christian Gonzalez is not injured.

Judging by the four home runs he launched out of Polar Park’s makeshift softball field during the home run derby at Drake Maye’s inaugural MayeDay Softball Classic, he’s feeling just fine physically.

In terms of his contract, that’s a different story. Gonzalez is not feeling so great about that.

Teammate Marcus Jones let the cat out of the bag when it came to Gonzalez’ recent absence from the team during OTA practices last week.

The star cornerback, who is in the final year of his rookie deal, is holding out, per Jones, who spoke with the media before the event.

“It’s a day-by-day thing. I’ve been in the situation of learning about how contract negotiations stuff goes about,” Jones said. “At the end of the day, they want what’s best for them, and he wants what’s best for him as well.”

So no injury. No excused absence. It’s a full-fledged, big deal holdout.

While Gonzalez is purposely avoiding practice to show his displeasure over not yet getting an extension, he was front and center at Maye’s charity endeavor.

Translation: While embroiled in a contract dispute, Gonzalez won’t practice with the Patriots for the foreseeable future but is willing to risk possibly getting hurt for a teammate in an event aimed at benefitting Maye’s foundation.

Gonzalez managed to come away unscathed, while earning points with Maye, his teammates and more.

There isn’t much doubt Maye appreciated Gonzalez’ backing for the first-time celebrity softball game. The fans, who sold out Polar Park for the event, also made their feelings known. They gave Gonzalez a rousing ovation when he was introduced.

So they knew the score. His teammates did, as well.

“He means a lot. When it comes down to it, we support him and also the organization,” Jones said. “At the end of the day, that’s their thing. We’re ready when it comes down to him. I know he’s always one of those guys where no matter where he’s at, he’s always working.”

How long it takes for the situation to resolve is anyone’s guess. Gonzalez, one of the top corners in the league, wants to be paid as such.

Currently, LA Rams Trent McDuffie is the top man on the cornerback totem pole, earning $31 million per season.

How much beyond that is Gonzalez seeking? Let’s just say it’s reasonable to assume at least $35 million, if not more.

It’s interesting that Gonzalez and Seattle’s Devon Witherspoon, the Seahawks top corner who is also in talks for an extension, share the same agent.

So there’s a bit of a cat and mouse game going on. Whoever signs first, will take over as the highest paid corner. Whoever signs second will top that.

It’s possible the Patriots don’t want get engaged in a high stakes salary war.

“We’re not rushing it when it comes down to it,” Jones said regarding any timetable for a resolution. “At the end of the day, we all know the value that he comes (with) when it comes down to our team.”

The question remains how much the Patriots value their 2023 first-round pick, who is a coveted shutdown corner.

Gonzalez earned Second-team All-Pro honors in 2024. Last season, after suffering a hamstring injury that forced him to miss the first three weeks of the season, he returned and was worthy of Pro Bowl honors. He had 10 pass breakups during the year, and starred during the postseason.

In theory, Gonzalez is under the contract so the Patriots don’t have to do anything. They can stand pat by exercising his fifth-year option for 2027. And, utilize the franchise tag after that.

Given all that Mike Vrabel has preached about the culture and rewarding players who do the work and do their part to help the team win, it would send a strong message to the team having a home-grown player rewarded.

If they don’t reach an accord, it appears Gonzalez, who played a mean shortstop, homered, and caught the final out to secure the win for Team Sox, is willing to sit-out for however long it takes.

Jones voiced his appreciation for Gonzalez being in Worcester with 15 other teammates, along with Patriots coach Mike Vrabel and an assortment of celebrities for Maye’s event.

“We do a lot of stuff when it comes to off the field,” Jones said. “Our connection, our relationship means a lot. Being able to have someone who’s a great football player, but a better person, it means a whole bunch.”

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