The New England Patriots and Christian Gonzalez remain in a contract impasse regarding an extension, with reports indicating the sides are far apart on deal elements despite owner Robert Kraft claiming an offer was made.
An Offer That Would Top the League
Patriots owner Robert Kraft announced that Christian Gonzalez had been offered a deal making him the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback. This specific valuation places Gonzalez ahead of recent market benchmarks, such as the four-year, $132 million contract extension signed by Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon.
Frustration Mounts in Camp
Christian Gonzalez expressed frustration with the team regarding the contract situation. The holdup in negotiations is likely more structurally related than anything else, according to available reporting from CBS Sports and Sporting News.
What Remains Undisclosed
The specific structural elements causing the impasse remain undisclosed. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the Patriots and Gonzalez are not close on several elements of an extension. The uncertainty surrounding these details leaves the timeline for a resolution open, even as Gonzalez has two years remaining on his rookie contract with a total value of $20,928,482.