One of the strengths of the New England Patriots is their cornerback room, led by Pro-Bowler Christian Gonzalez, Carlton Davis III, and Marcus Jones. Given that the Patriots run a predominantly nickel-based defense, these three receive the majority of the snaps.
Despite not relying heavily on their backups, New England ultimately decided to bolster their depth at the position, selecting Wake Forest cornerback Karon Prunty with the No. 171 pick. With Prunty now in the fold, it spells bad news for cornerback Kindle Vildor, whose job is now in jeopardy
Prunty’s Addition Spells Disaster for Vildor
Vildor, 28, signed a low-risk contract with the Patriots last month. The addition was mainly viewed as a special teams move, given his extensive experience on the unit and New England’s numerous departures, and as a way to bring competition among the reserves.
However, his recent production doesn’t strengthen his case. Vildor is coming off a quiet season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in which he primarily played on the special teams. Serving as an insurance piece behind cornerbacks Jamal Dean and Zyon McCollum, Vildor appeared in just 164 defensive snaps, logging 16 total tackles and one interception.
While his play never really stood out, he proved adequate in coverage, allowing 13 receptions on 18 targets for 159 yards and one touchdown. Considering he wasn’t able to carve out a significant role on defense, it was already going to be a challenge for him to earn meaningful reps with New England.
But with Prunty now in the mix, Vildor’s future with the Patriots is already looking grim. By some, Prunty, 24, was considered to go undrafted; however, with New England investing a fifth-round selection in him, it’s evident they view him as a potential long-term contributor.
Even if he doesn’t contribute on defense right away, Prunty should slot above Vildor on the Patriots’ depth chart. Besides Prunty and Vildor, New England’s other reserves are Charles Woods, Kobee Minor, and Marcellas Dial Jr.
Woods operated as the fourth corner last season and, barring any changes, he’ll likely reclaim the spot in training camp. Meanwhile, Minor and Dial are both young, unproven players who are on the outside looking in for a spot.
The Patriots carried five corners on their active roster last season, and that likely won’t be changing heading into the upcoming season. Unless they add to the position between now and the start of training camp, that means Prunty and Vildor will be battling for the fifth corner spot.
Given Prunty’s upside and New England’s commitment to him, Vildor would appear to have a slim chance of securing a roster spot. While he’ll still have an opportunity to prove himself throughout the offseason, there is little margin for error in this crowded secondary.
If Vildor is cut, hopefully the Patriots can keep him on the practice squad.
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