Patriots Advance For First Time Since Tom Brady Era – But Could Lose Cornerback Christian Gonzalez To Injury

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by Matthew MendivesJanuary 13, 2026, 1:39 am >

The New England Patriots defeated the L.A. Chargers to advance to the divisional round for the first time since the Tom Brady era, but they lost cornerback Christian Gonzalez to injury during the game.

The Patriots surpassed all expectations and made the playoffs for the first time since 2021, earning the no. 2 seed nonetheless. Meanwhile, the Chargers did about what everyone expected. They have a talented core of players, but struggle in areas, particularly pass protection.

Neither team scored in the first quarter. The Patriots got the scoring started in the second quarter with a 23-yard field goal from Andy Borregales. The Chargers matched this with a field goal from Cameron Dicker. With just two seconds left in the half, Borrigales hit a 35-yard field goal to give the Patriots a 6-3 lead at halftime.

Scoring was light in the third quarter as well. The only score was a field goal by Borrigales. The score was 9-3 heading into the fourth quarter. Neither team had a touchdown.

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The Gonzalez injury happened early in the fourth quarter. He was covering wide receiver Quintin Johnston. He was going for an interception when the two fell, with Johnston accidentally falling on Gonzalez’s head. Gonzalez was having a great game, not allowing a single catch on five attempts. He was listed as questionable to return.

While Gonzalez was out of the game, the Patriots got the lone touchdown of the game on a Hunter Henry catch. This made the game 16-3, a lead it would hold until the end.

Gonzalez had limited media availability, but said he felt fine. He is questionable for the divisional round matchup against the winner of Texans-Steelers. The injury has not officially been labeled, but if it’s a concussion, it could seriously impact his ability to play. However, early signs point to it not being a concussion.