Stephon Gilmore discusses Christian Gonzalez playing status ahead of season opener

Former NFL defensive player of the year Stephon Gilmore stated he would likely sit out the New England Patriots' season opener if he were in cornerback Christian Gonzalez’s position regarding his current contract. Gonzalez and head coach Mike Vrabel have consistently declined to comment on the player’s status for the Week 1 game against the Seattle Seahawks. Gilmore suggested during an appearance on Zolak & Bertrand that he would hold out without an extension, citing his belief that Gonzalez performs at a higher level than current market-leading cornerbacks. The New England Patriots face the defending Super Bowl champions in the season debut, a matchup where the team lacks significant depth behind their primary starter. The organization continues to navigate the uncertainty surrounding the defensive backfield as the game approaches. A contract resolution remains the preferred outcome to ensure the team is at full strength for the opening game.

• 9:17 PMYahoo Sports — Stephon Gilmore would 'probably not' play if he was Christian Gonzalez