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Raiders get reprieve as top Patriots defender ruled out

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Derek Hegna | Last updated Sep 6, 2025 9:41 AM ET

Heading into Sunday’s regular season debut against the New England Patriots, the Las Vegas Raiders need to keep some things in mind.

Both teams made arguably the biggest head-coaching changes of the offseason, with the Raiders hiring Pete Carroll and the Patriots bringing in Mike Vrabel. As such, the teams are still in an adjustment period as far as getting used to the new schemes and player additions. Both are seen as sleeper teams to varying degrees, so they are hoping to make good on the increased expectations early.

If the Patriots’ injury report is anything to go by, the Raiders could have a golden opportunity to get the jump on their opponent.

The Patriots are confirmed to be missing a star player against the Raiders.

On Friday, Vrabel confirmed that Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez would miss Sunday’s game against the Raiders, confirming a report by beat writer Doug Kyed.

Patriots HC Mike Vrabel says he expects Alex Austin to fill in for Christian Gonzalez. Also says Marcus Jones will play.

— Doug Kyed (@DougKyed) September 5, 2025

It is a huge blow for the Patriots, as Gonzalez was New England’s best cover corner last season, recording seven pass breakups and two interceptions.

Whether the Patriots roll with Alex Austin or Marcus Jones to replace Gonzalez, the Raiders suddenly have an incredible opportunity on their hands. Jakobi Meyers is already motivated to get revenge against his former team, but Dont’e Thornton Jr. now draws a better matchup in his first career NFL start. If the Raiders can get their passing attack established early, it could be a big day for quarterback Geno Smith and multiple pass catchers.

The Raiders might not get a better opportunity than this to start their season off hot, so they must take advantage of this situation.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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