One 2023 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate from each division

By Dave Adams | Jul 15, 2023

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 03: Defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah #91 of the Kansas State Wildcats reacts after making a sack against the TCU Horned Frogs in the second half of the Big 12 Championship game at AT&T Stadium on December 03, 2022 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images) /

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NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate Christian Gonzalez, CB, New England Patriots (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /

AFC East: Christian Gonzalez, CB, New England Patriots – Round 1, Pick 17

Defensive Jedi Master Bill Belichick adds the player many analysts list as the top CB in the draft to his already strong defense.

Long, fast, and smooth, Christian Gonzalez played his junior year at Oregon after two seasons at woeful Colorado and had 45 tackles, forced six pass breakups, and snagged four interceptions. Watching his film is fun. He is a versatile defender who can cover out wide or in the slot and isn’t afraid to get his nose dirty in the run game.

Gonzalez is a perfect fit in Bill Belichick’s defense which takes full advantage of players with positional versatility.

The combination of player, opportunity, and situation make Gonzalez a strong contender for NFL Defensive ROTY.

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