Story perspectives

Patriots, Colts Practice; Gonzalez Lands Record Deal, QB Trade Sought

8/12/2026

Summary

Gonzalez Misses Practice

The Patriots and Colts held a joint practice in Foxborough on Aug. 11, 2026.
Christian Gonzalez missed the session after a hard landing amid contract talks, prompting owner Robert Kraft to offer him the league’s highest-paid cornerback deal.
Coach Josh Vrabel said quarterback Drake Maye will likely sit Thursday’s preseason game at 7:30 p.m.
Maye threw a touchdown to A.J. Brown and DeVito hit a 50-plus-yard pass to Mack Hollins during the practice.

Summary

Colts Seek Trade

The Indianapolis Colts seek a trade partner for rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson before the preseason.
General manager Chris Ballard left cornerback Charvarius Ward in Indianapolis to rehab a back injury with no timeline.
Head coach Shane Steichen, hired in 2023 after serving as the Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive coordinator, oversees the offense, Lou Anarumo (dismissed after the Bengals’ poor personnel performance), and special teams coordinator Brian Mason, in his fourth season.

History

Historical Context

In March 1993 the NFL instituted its modern free-agent system, ending earlier restrictions and sparking a rise in player salaries. That shift paved the way for ever-larger rookie deals, and by August 2026 the Patriots and Colts held a joint practice where owner Robert Kraft offered rookie cornerback Christian Gonzalez a record contract, illustrating ongoing salary-cap pressures.

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Gonzalez Misses Practice

The Patriots and Colts held a joint practice in Foxborough on Aug. 11, 2026.
Christian Gonzalez missed the session after a hard landing amid contract talks, prompting owner Robert Kraft to offer him the league’s highest-paid cornerback deal.
Coach Josh Vrabel said quarterback Drake Maye will likely sit Thursday’s preseason game at 7:30 p.m.
Maye threw a touchdown to A.J. Brown and DeVito hit a 50-plus-yard pass to Mack Hollins during the practice.

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