Ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft, A.J. Brown did his homework on draft eligible defensive backs set to enter the league.

Based on his research, one stood above the rest: Christian Gonzalez.

It took no time for the duo to square off, as the Eagles opened the 2023 regular season against the Patriots in Gonzalez’s NFL debut. The then 21-year-old cornerback impressed throughout, and his performance was highlighted by a critical fourth-quarter pass breakup on fourth down in coverage against Brown.

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Flash forward three years, and the two are now teammates — set to bring those matchups to the Patriots’ practice fields.

“Gonzo, man. Great player,” Brown said. “You know, hopefully everything works out (contract wise). I’m excited to get some work between him and [Carlton Davis] and the other guys, but Gonzo most definitely man.

“I’m ready to go against him so we can push each other, get in the lab together because obviously, that’s good on good, you know, and there’s very little room for mistakes.”

Gonzalez has stayed in touch with Brown since that matchup in his debut. While Brown is eager to challenge the Patriots’ star cornerback on the field, Gonzalez is equally excited about the arrival of one of the NFL’s most accomplished receivers.

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“A.J.’s a great guy. We’ve been able to keep in contact, talk throughout the past three years. Anytime he’s hit me up, he’s told me to keep my head on straight,” Gonzalez said. “He’s a great guy and a great teammate. I’m excited for him to be a part of this team and what he’s going to bring. He’s the ultimate competitor. So, I’m excited.”

The two are now set to compete on the regular, with the battles having the chance to become some of the most competitive reps of training camp. It’s something Brown is looking too.

“I love going against guys like that because those are my matchups and I don’t shy away from those,” Brown said. “So getting to practice against him and CD, that’s what you want.”