As the New England Patriots began training camp Saturday without a contract in place for standout cornerback Christian Gonzalez, team owner Robert Kraft revealed that the Pats have made an offer to Gonzalez that would make him the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback and the highest-paid player in franchise history.So far, no deal has been agreed to even as contract negotiations drag on.“We love Christian Gonzalez,” Kraft said. “We love him as a player, as a person. That’s why we’ve made an offer to him that makes him the highest-paid player ever to play that position in the NFL. Coincidentally, it’s the highest contract in Patriots franchise history.”DeAndre Hopkins explores post-playing coaching role with the PatriotsChad GraffPart of the potential delay is that Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon, who shares an agent with Gonzalez, is also due for a record-breaking contract. Whoever between them signs first could quickly be surpassed by the other.But the clock is ticking. These types of extensions usually have an informal deadline of the season opener, which is Sept. 9.After the Los Angeles Rams traded for 25-year-old Trent McDuffie in March, they made him the league’s highest-paid corner, inking a four-year deal worth $31 million per year.The expectation has been that the Patriots and Gonzalez will agree to an extension before the season begins. They drafted Gonzalez, 24, with the 17th pick in 2023. An injury ended his rookie season after four games, but Gonzalez has since become a star for the Patriots, arguably their second-most important player only behind Drake Maye.The Patriots have wanted to build their roster focused on premium positions, and Gonzalez certainly checks that box. They’ve spent their last four first-round picks on a cornerback, quarterback and two offensive tackles.Now, they just need to get a deal done with Gonzalez that keeps him as a cornerstone of their plans.Gonzalez skipped the Patriots’ voluntary practices and was a limited participant in mandatory sessions while negotiating the contract this spring. But Gonzalez reported to training camp on Friday, avoiding thoughts of a potential holdout, and participated during on-field drills on Saturday, the first practice of camp.“Those contract negotiations are ongoing between the club and his agents,” coach Mike Vrabel said. “I’m excited about having Christian back here with us and the impact that he can make on our football team, and I really enjoy the person, enjoy the player. That’s what I’m looking forward to.”