It is June, and we are weeks away from NFL teams even getting started on their training camps, so it is generally best to temper the enthusiasm that comes from spring workouts. There have been no injuries, there have been no chances for players to disappoint, there have been no cuts or trades or difficult decisions to be made. For the Patriots, who some are hyping as a playoff team and perhaps more in the AFC, that’s useful to remember.
Still, one of the players who has been the source of enthusiasm this spring has been rookie fourth-round pick Craig Woodson, the versatile defensive back from Cal. He impressed during OTAs, though he has been one of the many later-round picks to hold off on signing a contract with the team, a trend that has cropped up around the NFL.
On Friday, though, the team announced that Woodson did finally put his signature on a deal.
From the patriots website:Â “The New England Patriots announced today the signing of fourth-round draft pick S Craig Woodson. Terms of the contract were not announced.
“Woodson, 24, was selected by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 106th overall pick out of California. The 6-foot, 200-pounder, started all 13 games last season and finished with 70 total tackles, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery and 7 passes defensed.”
Craig Woodson Impressed in OTAs
Woodson opened some eyes in OTAs when he recorded an interception off of Drake Maye in the teamâs first open practice in May. Woodson is fastâhe ran a 4.45 40-yard dash at the combineâbut his command of the safety position has been impressive, too.
Returning Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers had a positive scouting report. “I like him â smart, savvy,â Peppers said, via MassLive. âHeâs done a great job soaking up what the coaches want him to do, different techniques. College ball is a little different than in the league â especially in the Pac-12. So, you know, heâs definitely done a good job.â
Patriots Could Use Special Teams Help
Woodson is a good bet to make the team despite being part of what is a very deep and talented group of safeties. He is versatile, and is able–and willing–to play on special teams.
âIâve been in every bit of special teams. When I first came in as a freshman, I was really all four core. But I did a lot of punt in my career. PVR, ran on kickoff, as the safety on kickoff,â he said. âSo, whatever they need me to do on special teams in New England, Iâm there for it. Iâm not the type of player whoâs like, âIâm too good for special teams,â or trying to run away from it.
âSpecial teams is another extension of defense in my mind. So, being able to set the defense up for good field position or even the offense when it comes to special teams. Youâve got to take advantage of that and put me on the field on special teams. Iâm going down there and will make a play.â
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