Rodney Harrison urges Patriots to finalize contract with Christian Gonzalez

Former New England Patriots player Rodney Harrison expressed concern regarding stalled contract negotiations between the team and cornerback Christian Gonzalez. Harrison stated that failing to secure the young defender to a long-term deal could damage the organization's reputation among future free agents. Gonzalez has emerged as a key piece of head coach Mike Vrabel’s defense since joining the team. While the Patriots have indicated a willingness to offer a contract that would make him the league's highest-paid cornerback, reports indicate the two sides remain apart on structure and overall valuation. Harrison suggested that a resolution is likely within the next week before New England’s season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. Gonzalez, age 24, enters the season as a central component of the team's defensive unit.

• 7:19 PMYahoo Sports — Rodney Harrison Warns Patriots Not Paying Christian Gonzalez Would Send ‘Terrible Message’