Patriots now have a $17.5 million decision to make about franchise superstar

"The last few years of his tenure as the Patriots' head coach won't be remembered too fondly, but there are a few things that stand out positively for Bill Belichick during that time that continue to go under the radar. The most noteworthy of all is his applaudable decision to select CB Christian Gonzalez with the team's first-round selection in 2023, as he has already become an anchor of their defense."

"Although there are rumors that the former head coach almost passed on the Oregon alum for another player, Gonzalez became a Patriot and has every reason to remain on the team for as long as possible, especially with how he's played over the last three seasons. He's already been named a Second-Team All-Pro for the 2024 season and was voted into the Pro Bowl this year, finally being recognized for the talent that so many across the NFL overlook."

"And as great as that all is for his career and the Patriots' secondary, it now means they'll be on the hook for more money when they eventually (and hopefully inevitably) offer him his first contract extension, with the opportunity coming with his fifth-year option next offseason. It should be an easy decision, but the money that he will be owed now might make it a bit trickier for Mike Vrabel and Co. to get it done."

"Evan Lazar of Patriots.com noted that the price tag went up with the announcement of the cornerback making the Pro Bowl, and a fifth-year option will now cost New England $17.5 million to keep him around for at least one more year, and give them more time to reach an agreement on a long-term extension."

Christian Gonzalez became a first-round pick for New England in 2023 and has established himself as an anchor of the Patriots' defense. He earned Second-Team All-Pro honors for 2024 and was voted into the Pro Bowl, increasing his recognition and leverage. The Pro Bowl selection raises the cost of his fifth-year option, meaning the Patriots would owe $17.5 million to keep him for that additional year. That larger price tag complicates future extension negotiations and could make it more challenging for the team to secure a long-term deal despite his strong performance.

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