Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez was held out for the first three games of the 2025 season, but his return to the field could be imminent.

New England (1-2) head coach Mike Vrabel said the plan is for Gonzalez to "ramp up" and make his season debut Sunday against the Carolina Panthers (1-2).

"Excited about his efforts and willingness to get back, work hard, and practice last week," Vrabel said Wednesday. "Hopefully he progresses throughout the week, and he can help us."

Gonzalez has been sidelined with a hamstring injury for seven weeks.

The issue arose during a July 28 practice while covering wideout Stefon Diggs. He sat with the injury for more than a month.

Named second-team All-Pro in 2024, Gonzalez has 76 tackles, three interceptions and 14 passes defended in 20 career game

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