The New England Patriots won't be getting their defensive leader back this week, after all. Christian Gonzalez, who logged three straight limited practices this week after being sidelined since July with a hamstring injury , was ruled out for Week 3 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Gonzalez was listed on Friday's injury report as questionable for Sunday's game, which kicks off at 1 p.m. at Gillette Stadium. On Saturday, the team downgraded him to out.

The 23-year-old suffered the injury during practice on July 28 and had missed practice until Wednesday when he returned to the field.

"It has been hard and tough, but that's part of football. Everything is tough and it's going to test you physically and mentally," Gonzalez said. "It's been tough having to watch. But I'm excited to

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