The New England Patriots have extended a record contract offer to cornerback Christian Gonzalez in an effort to secure his long-term future with the team.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft announced the offer during training camp on Saturday. He described Gonzalez as a player and person the franchise values highly.
Kraft stated the proposal would make Gonzalez the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history. The deal would also stand as the largest contract in Patriots franchise history.
Gonzalez was drafted by New England at No. 17 overall in 2023. Through three seasons he has recorded 145 tackles, three interceptions and 24 pass breakups while earning one Pro Bowl selection and one second-team All-Pro honor.
The offer may influence upcoming extensions for other top cornerbacks, including Pittsburgh Steelers player Joey Porter Jr. Earlier projections placed Porter between $25 million and $30 million per year.