FOXBOROUGH - Devon Witherspoon is now the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback.
According to multiple reports, the Seahawks defensive back reached agreement on a four-year $132 extension, with $101 guaranteed.
In New England, this is of particular interest given Christian Gonzalez is hoping to get an extension that would put him over that mark.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft stated the team had already extended an offer that would put Gonzalez at the top of the list. But that was three weeks ago.
It would seem the Patriots will now have to sign Gonzalez for more.
The All-Pro corner hasn’t practiced since Monday, when he apparently suffered an injury.
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel indicated Saturday prior to the team’s padded practice that Gonzalez wasn’t ready to participate.
“I don’t think I would expect Christian (to be out there) nor should you expect Christian,” Vrabel said when asked if Gonzalez would be at practice. “He’s working hard. Conditioning. But he’s not ready to get out there to practice yet.”
Gonzalez and Witherspoon, who were both drafted in 2023, share the same agent.
Along with Witherspoon, several members of that class have also signed lucrative extensions.
Bijan Robinson (three years, up to $75 million), Baltimore receiver Zay Flowers (four years, $140 million with $108 million guaranteed), and Chicago Bears offensive tackle Darnell Wright (four years, $116 million with $93 million guaranteed) and Detroit running back Jahmyr Gibbs (three years, $67.5 million) all scored big-time deals.
Before that trio, it was Will Anderson Jr, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Jalen Carter and Jack Campbell who inked new deals, getting monster pay days, from Gonzalez’ class.
Will the Witherspoon deal trigger the extension for Gonzalez?
Time will tell.
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