Patriots just made a move that could fast-track Christian Gonzalez's return

"On Tuesday, the New England Patriots waived cornerback D.J. James. On its own, it's not a noteworthy move. James is a second-year player who was drafted in the sixth round by the Seattle Seahawks in 2024. After being waived by Seattle, he spent his rookie season on New England's practice squad. He flashed some promise in training camp this year and made the 53-man roster, but he could be headed back to the practice squad if he clears waivers."

"Gonzalez, a third-year defensive back, is already one of the best corners in the league. Unfortunately, his debut this year has been delayed because of a hamstring injury he sustained in the second week of training camp. The corner has been working his way back, but he wasn't ready for Week 1, and missed New England's season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders."

"It still remains unclear if he'll be ready to travel to Miami with the team and return to his starting spot against the Dolphins, but the fact that the Patriots were comfortable moving a depth corner could be a good sign for the veteran cornerback. Fans and media members will surely be locked in on Gonzalez's name on the injury report throughout the week. If the corner returns to practice, and logs a couple of full practices, he'll likely be on the field on Sunday when New England plays its first AFC East game."

The New England Patriots waived cornerback D.J. James on Tuesday. James, a second-year sixth-round pick in 2024, spent his rookie season on New England's practice squad and made the 53-man roster after an impressive training camp. He could return to the practice squad if he clears waivers. The move may indicate that starting cornerback Christian Gonzalez is nearing a return from a hamstring injury sustained in the second week of training camp. Gonzalez missed Week 1 and the season opener but has been progressing in rehab; if he resumes practice and completes a couple of full sessions, he would likely be available to start against the Miami Dolphins. The team's willingness to move a depth corner suggests confidence in his recovery.

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