Christian Gonzalez signs extension to become highest-paid cornerback in NFL history

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 5:08 AM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

Christian Gonzalez signs extension to become highest-paid cornerback in NFL history
Summary

The New England Patriots have signed All-Pro cornerback Christian Gonzalez to a four-year, $135 million contract extension. The deal includes $102 million in guaranteed money and makes Gonzalez the highest-paid player at his position in NFL history. This agreement follows a recent extension signed by Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon, who previously held the record with a four-year, $132 million contract. Gonzalez, a 2023 first-round draft pick, earned Pro Bowl honors last season and received a second-team All-Pro nod in 2024. The contract extension concludes negotiations that began earlier this summer. With the deal finalized, Gonzalez will be available to play for the Patriots in their upcoming season opener on September 9.

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  • Christian Gonzalez signed a four-year, $135 million extension with the New England Patriots.
  • The contract features $102 million in total guaranteed compensation.
  • Gonzalez surpasses the $132 million deal recently signed by Devon Witherspoon.
  • The Patriots and Gonzalez reached the agreement just before the 2026 season opener.
  • Both Gonzalez and Witherspoon will participate in the game scheduled for September 9.
Latest Updates
  • 5:08 AMYahoo SportsChristian Gonzalez replaces Super Bowl champ Devon Witherspoon as NFL’s highest paid corner
What they're saying
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The second domino in the cornerback market has fallen, three weeks after Devon Witherspoon and the Seahawks agreed to an extension.

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