Quick Patriots Analysis: Woodson, Contracts, Diggs, and More
A look at the news and key topics surrounding the New England Patriots and the NFL.
“The Draft” in Action: Craig Woodson
As the NFL draft began its third day, the Patriots found themselves in a favorable position. With the fourth overall pick of the fourth round, they had the opportunity to adjust their strategy, ensuring they obtained at least their highest-valued prospect. It turned out they got Craig Woodson, a safety from the University of California, also known as “The Draft”.
“That was the nickname I gave him because he was always correcting us,” commented Tre Watson, former Cal defensive backs coach.
Tre Watson
Woodson has demonstrated his skills in the team’s voluntary practices in recent weeks, showing his ability to be in the right place, both in the deep part of the field and near the line of scrimmage. Woodson, who is 6 feet and 200 pounds, is expected to have a quick impact on the field, especially with his experience in special teams at Cal. Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger are the projected starting safeties, with Woodson, veteran Jaylinn Hawkins, free agent Dell Pettus, and Marcus Epps competing for roles.
Woodson, 24, played six seasons at Cal, becoming a starter in his final three years. The Patriots showed great interest in Woodson before the draft, being the only team that formally interviewed him at the NFL combine and then hosted him on one of their permitted visits.“I don’t think anyone has really defined the roles yet,” coach Mike Vrabel said about the safety corps.
Mike Vrabel
When the fourth round of the draft arrived, the Patriots knew they were close to selecting him, and it became a reality as other players were selected before. The Patriots had already selected TreVeyon Henderson and Kyle Williams, and were committed to the defense at that point, reflecting how Woodson was their highest-rated player entering the third day of the draft.
“I think the most important thing is hard work and the person’s character,” Watson said.
Tre Watson
Woodson, known as “The Eraser” in college, has already demonstrated his skills in New England.
Newcomer Contracts
Will Campbell, the No. 4 draft pick, is one of seven first-round players who have yet to sign their contracts. Negotiations are focused on the details of cash flow. Henderson, the No. 38 pick, is among the 30 second-round players who have yet to sign. Woodson’s situation, who is seeking compensation above the minimum, has slowed down the negotiation process.The Diggs Theme
Stefon Diggs’ viral video on a boat was a distraction for Mike Vrabel. The coach has emphasized that he treats players as they treat the team, and the video, along with Diggs’ lack of regular attendance at voluntary workouts, raises questions about Diggs’ situation in his first two months on the job, after signing a three-year, $69 million contract. Diggs’ contract includes $16.6 million fully guaranteed, although he must pass a physical to receive the money.
Defensive Line in Action
Vrabel noted that defensive linemen have an advantage in unpadded spring practices, as every play is “third and 10” with no run threat. This highlights the potential of Milton Williams, Christian Barmore, Keion White, and others, who have generated problems in practice.Attention to the Left Guard
A surprise in the most recent practice was seeing Tyrese Robinson at the left guard position, lined up alongside Will Campbell. Robinson, who arrived from the Vikings, is among the candidates the Patriots are considering for a highly contested position.
The Competition in the Receivers
Kayshon Boutte pointed out the competition at the receiver position, with 12 players vying for probably six spots. Diggs, Mack Hollins, DeMario Douglas, and Kyle Williams seem to be at the top of the depth chart, leaving Boutte, Kendrick Bourne, Ja’Lynn Polk, and Javon Baker competing for the remaining spots. Vrabel has noted Boutte’s improvement in physical shape and attitude.
The Peppers-Vrabel Story
In 2012, when Peppers visited Ohio State, Vrabel, then an assistant for the Buckeyes, surprised him by completing a successful route against him. Vrabel recalled this moment when they met again 13 years later, with Peppers in his fourth season in New England and Vrabel as the head coach of the Patriots.
