The expectation is now reality: Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez will not play in New England's season opener against the Raiders.

Gonzalez has been sidelined since July 28 with a hamstring injury.

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Missing your most talented defender isn't the best way to start the season. Especially with "terrific" skill players on the other side of the ball, which is how Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel referred to the group led by First Team All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers, rookie running back Ashton Jeanty and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers.

"Everybody's got to be ready to go," Vrabel said at Gillette Stadium on Friday afternoon.

Vrabel name-dropped cornerback Alex Austin and captain Marcus Jones as two defenders he beli

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