The New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel says cornerback Christian Gonzalez was not able to participate in a joint training-camp practice this week. Multiple reports note Gonzalez is among the starters who also do not play in a preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday night, and he does not take part in the Tuesday joint practice.
Vrabel is asked about the reason for Gonzalez’s absence and whether it is injury-related or connected to contract discussions. According to the outlets, Vrabel clarifies that Gonzalez is “physically unavailable” for practice. The reporting also frames the explanation as a response to speculation that the missed time could be tied to contractual matters, but Vrabel’s stated reason focuses on physical availability rather than contract negotiations.
Overall, the sources align on Gonzalez’s absence from both the joint practice and the Colts game, and they present Vrabel’s comments as the key confirmation for why he is sidelined during this stretch.
