The New England Patriots extend defensive tackle Davon Godchaux by two years for $20.8 million with a $17.85 million guaranteed at signing.
What it means for the Patriots
Last year he arguably had his best season after signing in New England as a free agent after four years with the Miami Dolphins. He had 65 total tackles, two of them were for loss and one of them resulted in a sack. He also forced a fumble and had five quarterback hits.
The Patriots have struggled on the defensive line in recent years. They’ve lacked “big people”, and it’s resulted in missing the brand of physicality required to consistently stop the run.
Prior to Godchaux’s free agent signing and Christian Baromore’s (drafted in the 2021 NFL draft in the second round, 38th overall) drafting, Laurence Guy was about all the Patriots had to dominate the defensive line. He’s been solid but he’s getting older and can’t hold down the fort alone.
Entering the final year of the two year $15 million free agent deal he signed with the Patriots last offseason. New England decided to take care of him and not create a distraction during the upcoming season. He’s been an important cog to the Patriots machine and would definitely have been asked about his contract situation.
At first I was skeptical about the price, but after comparing to his contemporaries, this contract is perfect for both parties. Godchaux feels like he being properly compensated and New England feels like they got a bargain.
The price feels right because he’s not quite a pro bowler, but he’s also solid and better than average. About $10 million a year is the new going price for this type of player.
Background
From Plaquemine, Louisiana, Godchaux has been a much better pro than he was projected to be. He was drafted in the fifth round by the Dolphins at 178 overall.
His last season at LSU they went 8 – 4 (Les Miles was fired earlier in the season) and he had his best college season. He had 62 total tackles, eight and a half were for loss and six and a half resulted in sacks. He also recovered two fumbles.
Make sure to continue to follow the Patriots here at Gridiron Heroics, here’s an article about Danny Amendola’s retirement.