The New England Patriots were in desperate need of an injection of talent after a horrible season last year. They finished with a record of 4-13, with only three of those wins being against opponents trying to win the game (losing to the Bills in the final week cost them the first overall pick).
The Patriots were busy in both the draft and free agency, bringing in a ton of new players. Out of all the big names joining the mix, one smaller name has seemingly stood out so far in training camp, despite the stiff competition in front of him.
Patriots Fourth-Round Pick Craig Woodson Already Proving to Be a Revelation
That is fourth-round safety Craig Woodson. Woodson was selected with the 106th pick in the draft by the Patriots, despite them having big investments in Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger. That means the team had high hopes for the rookie out of California, and he seems to be only increasing their hopes in him with his performance so far.
Reports out of camp are suggesting that he has the potential to contribute on all three downs and even special teams this coming season, showcasing his versatility. New head coach Mike Vrabel will be looking for versatile players on both sides of the ball to help incorporate his philosophies quickly in order to have a bounce-back season.
Dugger and Peppers dealt with injuries last season, and the defense suffered tremendously. That makes Woodson, who will be 24 entering his rookie season, an enticing player for the team even if he doesn't snag a starting role. He has plenty of experience and chops to do whatever the coaching staff asks of him, and his work ethic has stood out so far as well based on reports.
The Patriots in recent years haven't had the greatest success with their draft classes beyond making the easy quarterback selection of Drake Maye, so having a mid-round pick become a successful contributor could be a positive sign of things to come.
Will Campbell may be the most important acquisition, considering he should be the starting left tackle come Week 1, but other players like Woodson, who can do the dirty work in supporting roles, are also important if the Patriots want any chance of making the playoffs.