3 Patriots on the Chopping Block Next After Mac Jones Trade

2. Davon Godchaux, DT

Our second player is another who could be a victim of age and salary.

Davon Godchaux has been a force in the middle of the defensive line ever since he signed with New England in the 2021 offseason. Following four strong campaigns with the Miami Dolphins, Godchaux was added during a free agency frenzy where Bill Belichick tried to build up the roster to make up for losing Tom Brady.

Not every addition worked but Godchaux proved to be a great signing for the Patriots. He recorded 65 tackles and a sack in his first campaign with the team and then landed a two-year extension before the 2023 season. In all, the new deal would pay him $31 million over the course of three seasons and had $17.85 million in guarantees.

Entering the final year of his deal, Godchaux might be on the chopping block despite continuing to play well. Releasing him would save the team $8.3 million while leaving them with just $3.5 million in dead money. They're not in a spot where they need the money but it could be all about trying to build around younger talent, and with Godchaux turning 30 this year, he might not be in the future plans.