Christian Gonzalez is one of the most athletic players that has ever stepped through the doors of Gillette Stadium.
There’s a reason why the excitement level is through the roof for the New England Patriots’ 2023 first-round draft pick before he even takes a meaningful NFL snap.
Patriots veteran safety Kyle Dugger talked about how “effortless” Gonzalez makes things look on the field, while linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley labeled the rookie as a “technician.”
But who needs words when there’s video evidence of the former Oregon standout defensive back’s on-field play speaking for itself? At Tuesday’s OTAs practice, Gonzalez wowed onlookers with this ridiculous one-handed circus catch.
#Patriots Rookie CB Christian Gonzalez made a spectacular grab in warmups today👀 pic.twitter.com/FCHGoWl3uz
— Patriots on CLNS (@PatriotsCLNS) June 6, 2023
Oregon coach Dan Lanning recently said Gonzalez looks like a Madden creation on the football field. He even noted that Gonzalez was good enough to defend and play wide receiver, if the Ducks needed him to help out on offense.
Judging by the one-handed catch, it’s hard to argue with Lanning that the Patriots landed a truly rare and special athlete at No. 17 overall at the 2023 NFL draft.