Christian Gonzalez Injured in Practice

New England Patriots' top draft pick Christian Gonzalez came up limping in the team’s final practice of the 2023 preseason. ... and now the team is crossing its fingers that the injury to the prized young cornerback is nothing serious.

Gonzalez, a 21-year-old Oregon product who is expected to play a major role in New England’s defense, was looked at by trainers during the Wednesday session outside Gillette Stadium. The first-round pick got caught up awkwardly in a pass defense and then hopped to the sideline.

Trainers looked to be examining Gonzalez’s left ankle or foot, and while he did not return to the workout, he was part of the post-practice huddle - while not wearing his cleats.

Gonzalez has a chance to be a go-to guy in the New England defense and ever since the start of training camp has essentially projected to serve as a Week 1 starter.

The Patriots are struggling with some issues in the secondary as they are without Jonathan Jones ... though he might be back in time for the team’s Sept. 10 season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. Additionally, rookie Isaiah Bolden made national headlines when he was moved in to concussion protocol after being carted off the field Saturday night in Green Bay.

The Patriots will end the preseason schedule on Friday night against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium. ... and as always, the goal will be to get productive work while avoiding any more injuries along the way.