Matt Groh leads ongoing contract negotiations for Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez

New England Patriots vice president of football administration Matt Groh is managing the team's prolonged contract negotiations with cornerback Christian Gonzalez. Reports indicate that Gonzalez's representatives have expressed frustration with the process, noting that Groh lacks the authority to approve changes to potential deals. The team has maintained distance between the player's camp and higher-level decision-makers like Wolf, Richard Miller, and ownership. This strategy is reportedly intended to wear down players and their representation during talks. With the season opener scheduled for two days from now, the status of a new contract remains uncertain. There is no official resolution, and the lack of a breakthrough leaves the availability of Gonzalez for the upcoming game in question.

• 5:45 PMYahoo Sports — Unexpected executive reportedly at center of Christian Gonzalez talks