Foxborough — New England Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez remains focused on the present as contract extension talks continue into the preseason. Speaking before Saturday’s practice, Gonzalez declined to provide specifics on the progress of negotiations or his intentions for the upcoming regular-season opener against the Seattle Seahawks.

“I’m focused on today,” Gonzalez said when asked about committing to playing in Wednesday’s game without a new deal. He emphasized concentration on practice rather than contract matters, noting, “Right now, it is practice in what ... a couple, 30 minutes, 40 minutes? [I’m] worried on that right now, so we’ll focus on that.” When asked if he was seeking a trade, Gonzalez replied, “I’m here right now. I’ll always be where my feet are and do what I’ve got to do.”

Gonzalez, the Patriots’ first-round selection in 2023, is under contract for two more seasons and scheduled to earn a base salary of $2.259 million this year. His holdout contrasts with moves by several peers from his draft class, including Seattle defensive back Devon Witherspoon, who recently secured a four-year, $132 million extension.

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel addressed the situation, acknowledging the complexities involved from his perspective as both a coach and former player. “I’ve been on both sides,” Vrabel said. “I think what’s important for me is to try to communicate, try to explain the players that we really want to build around and have. I’ve done that with [Gonzalez], and everybody knows that. So, I don’t get involved in the negotiations per se, but I certainly want to be involved in trying to get the situation resolved.”

Vrabel characterized contract discussions as a “delicate balance” and expressed his desire to remain focused on preparing the team for Seattle. “I want to be able to just continue to prepare for Seattle and focus on all the things that we’re going to have to do to beat an excellent football team with our team and the players that we have and how we get off to a really good start here,” he added.

As the Patriots approach the season opener, Gonzalez’s contractual status remains unsettled, but the cornerback and coaching staff appear determined to maintain focus on on-field preparation.