Patriots get good injury news before Panthers game

On Friday's final injury report, the New England Patriots listed cornerback Christian Gonzalez as questionable to play the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

Per Dianna Russini of The Athletic, though, the Patriots expect him to make his season debut against the Panthers after missing the first three weeks with a hamstring injury.

"The good news for the Patriots: Cornerback Christian Gonzalez is expected to make his season debut this week against Carolina," Russini wrote. "I’m told Gonzalez has worked hard on his hamstring recovery to get back on the field and is ready to roll. He and the Patriots were in agreement on not rushing his return, and he should bolster a defense that badly needs him. Panthers QB Bryce Young has only one career road win, so it’s a good spot for Gonzalez’s return."

Christian Gonzalez could provide boost for New England Patriots

Gonzalez will be a big help for the Patriots defense. The 2023 first-round pick has appeared in 20 games, recording 76 tackles, three interceptions and 14 passes defensed. 

Gonzalez's presence should help to keep Young in check on Sunday, though the third-year quarterback has yet to show he's a threat this season. Even with a huge 30-0 win over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 3, the Panthers' only win of the season, Young only threw for 121 yards.

After losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers, 21-14, last week because of an offense that turned over the ball five times, the Patriots need to earn a victory over the Panthers to get back to .500 before they play the Buffalo Bills in Week 5.