The New England Patriots selected Oregon cornerback Christian Gonzalez with the 17th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Many fans and media alike predicted New England would select a wide receiver. The need for a top receiver was important for the Patriots, but the front office had other plans.
New England decided to go defense and add depth to the cornerback room. Gonzalez is coming off a season with Oregon that saw him record four interceptions and 50 total tackles. He has already been a minicamp standout, and he could be even more of an important piece with the current situation surrounding Jack Jones.