Patriots Christian Gonzalez, Keion White Sign Rookie Contracts, Draft Class Complete
FOXBORO — The New England Patriots 2023 Draft class has now been signed, sealed and delivered in its entirety.
As each of the 17 rookies on the Pats roster reported for training camp on Friday, first-round cornerback Christian Gonzalez and second-round defensive end Keion White officially joined the Foxboro fold by signing their respective rookie deals.
As first reported by Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald, Gonzalez's deal is four-years, $15.1 million with a $7.98 million signing bonus. Kyed also reported that White's four-year deal is worth $7.8 million with a $2.6 million signing bonus.
Selected in the first round (No. 17 overall), Gonzalez has the chance to become the Patriots primary boundary cornerback. Statistically, New England’s rookie phenom already seems well on his way to becoming a competent pro. He finished his 2022 season with the Oregon Ducks having compiled 35 tackles, four interceptions and four passes-defensed. He was also one of college football’s most durable players, starting all 12 games in which, he played during 2022 — as well as each of the 18 for which he suited up for Colorado from 2020-21.
Still, his value is as much about adaptability and athleticism as it is statistical competence. He is well-sized at 6-2, 200 pounds, with the height and length to match up against opposing teams’ top receivers on the outside. In a game setting, Gonzalez is arguably at his best in man coverage. However, his ability to maintain eye contact with the quarterback makes him a potential asset in zone, as well. Though his performance during training camp is likely to be the deciding factor in his role at the start of the season, Gonzalez has already shown enough athleticism and field savvy to ensure that he will be a notable part of their corps of cornerbacks, even as a rookie.
White was selected in the second-round (No. 46 overall) back in April. Known primarily for his edge rush prowess during his time at Georgia Tech, White was a jack of all trades during the 90-minute session. The 6-4, 287-pounder aligned at outside linebacker, set in a three-point stance, rushed the passer, played the run, and even dropped into coverage as well.
Having a clear need at the edge, the Patriots filled it nicely with White, who projects as a 5-technique defensive end. The ex-Yellow Jacket exhibits both physical size and athleticism. Though he should see most of his time at the five, he has the versatility move all over the defensive front. White is still considered a developmental talent as a pass-rush prospect. However, he can also be an immediate contributor against the run, provided he is placed on the edges.
Gonzalez, White and their Patriots teammates will take the practice fields adjacent to Gillette Stadium for their first training camp session on Wednesday, July 26.
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