Mike Vrabel Suffers Major Blow at Patriots Practice Amid Huge Boost for Drake Maye Patriots HC Mike Vrabel faces a defensive crisis as a defensive star remains sidelined, while a major player's return

In New England, they know a thing or two about championship defenses being built on the backs of legendary cornerbacks. From Ty Law to Darrelle Revis , that island mentality has been a cornerstone. But as the 2025 season dawns, a familiar anxiety is creeping in, one that feels all too reminiscent of when a key piece goes missing right before the big game. The news hit the Patriots wire on Wednesday with the cold, hard finality of a veteran being cut.

As Ian Rapoport noted, “Good news: Stefon Diggs (knee) is not on the report. Bad news: Christian Gonzalez (hamstring) is a DNP.” For Head Coach Mike Vrabel , this is a major blow. His crown jewel on defense, All-Pro corner Christian Gonzalez , remained sidelined, a haunting absence that began all the way back on July 28th

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