The New England Patriots made a major addition to their secondary when they signed safety Kevin Byard to a one-year contract. However, by the end of the season, the safety next to him may be getting all the shine.
Craig Woodson became a crucial part of New England’s defense as a rookie. Entering 2026, Chad Graff of the Athletic thinks the safety will become more of a household name.
“Last season, Woodson was quietly great as a rookie for the Patriots during their Super Bowl run, capable of both helping stop the run from the back end and covering up plenty as a deep safety,” Graff wrote. “Now, he’s again entering the season overshadowed, this time after the Pats signed veteran Kevin Byard, who led the NFL in interceptions last season, to play next to Woodson. But it won’t be a surprise if it’s actually Woodson who stands out the most this season in New England.”
After being drafted in the fourth round, Woodson went on to appear in all 17 games as a rookie, starting 15 of them. The safety put up 79 tackles, three passes defended and two fumble recoveries. Woodson’s overall grade over 63.8 from Pro Football Focus, ranking 53/98, may not be the prettiest. However, his 78.5 run defense, ranking 20th, shows promise.
If he takes the step forward Graff is expecting, it wouldn’t be shocking to see Woodson earn more NFL recognition. Now, he’ll have a veteran mentor to lean on in Byard. If both are at the top of their games, the Patriots will have a secondary to be truly feared in 2026.
The New England Patriots made a major addition to their secondary when they signed safety Kevin Byard to a one-year contract. However, by the end of the season, the safety next to him may be getting all the shine. Craig Woodson became a crucial part of New England’s defense as a rookie.
