Heading into training camp, Patriots second-year cornerback Christian Gonzalez will be under intense scrutiny.

Despite tearing his labrum in Week 4 of the 2023 season, the 2023 first-round pick had an outstanding rookie year. In his initial professional games, Gonzalez effectively covered top receivers like Philadelphia’s A.J. Brown, Miami’s Tyreek Hill, and New York’s Garrett Wilson. His impressive performance earned him an honorable mention in ESPN’s list of top-10 cornerbacks for 2024, along with praise from division rivals.

“I was able to go against the rookie, he’s real good,” Hill said after facing Gonzalez. “[He’s a] very lengthy corner, [who] had some real good technique and speed about him.”

Gonzalez is set to be New England’s top cornerback for the 2024 season. His role will involve guarding the best receivers on opposing teams, which will be particularly challenging given New England’s tough regular-season schedule.

In Weeks 1-6, Gonzalez will face the league’s top receivers without a bye week. He’ll start against Cincinnati’s Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, then face Seattle’s DK Metcalf, followed by a rematch with Wilson, and then San Francisco’s Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. He will also contend with Miami’s Hill and Jaylen Waddle, and Houston’s Stefon Diggs.

Later in the year, the challenges continue with the Titans (DeAndre Hopkins, Calvin Ridley) in Week 9, the Rams (Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua) in Week 11, and the Dolphins again in Week 12.

The 2024 season will be crucial for Gonzalez. If he can stay consistent and perform well against the league’s best receivers, he will solidify his status as one of the top cornerbacks in the game. However, if he struggles, his reputation and starting position could be at risk.