The New England Patriots selected Oregon cornerback Christian Gonzalez with the 17th overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft. However, his versatility is something that shouldn’t go unnoticed.
Gonzalez was productive throughout his career with the Ducks and had a successful 2022 season. He tallied 51 tackles and four interceptions last year and was thought to be one of the top corners in the draft. He became the first Patriots corner selected in the first round of the draft since Devin McCourty in 2010. Now, reviews are continuing to pour in about his playing ability.
Phil Perry sat down with Oregon coach Dan Lanning on “The Next Pats Podcast” earlier this week. Lanning gave a crystal-clear assessment of what Gonzalez could bring to the table for New England.
“I honestly believe he could play wideout if somebody needed him to play wideout. He could be a returner as well if somebody needed that. We didn’t ask him to do that, but we probably should have at times,” said Lanning.
Gonzalez played wide receiver in high school for The Colony High School in Texas.
Versatility is something that the Patriots seem to have gravitated towards over the last couple of years. Gonzalez will be added to a New England secondary that has a bunch of young talent in Marcus Jones and Jack Jones, as well as veteran pieces like Jonathan Jones.
