The New England Patriots agreed to a new contract with starting defensive tackle Davon Godchaux that guarantees the run-stopper $16.5 million on a two-year agreement for up to $21 million, continuing their offseason theme of extending or re-signing their own players.
Godchaux’s signing makes him the 12th Patriots player the organization has re-upped with; considering their 4-13 season from the previous year, this is an odd decision that raises the stakes for the lone eligible player still on the roster who has not landed a new contract.
Edge rusher Matthew Judon, who has mostly outperformed the four-year contract he originally signed with the Pats, has expressed his dissatisfaction with having one year left on his contract with no security after that, and has not practiced in the past two days. Since joining the team in 2021, he has amassed 32 sacks in 38 starts; however, his position for this season is uncertain as he looks to negotiate a new contract. Before training camp, Judon received contract proposals from New England; however, sources state that they have not yet reached an agreement on a revised agreement.
Godchaux is a vital run stuffer for the Patriots, and his understated role is one of the main reasons their run defense finished among the best in the league the previous season.
Godchaux expressed his dissatisfaction at a news conference last week, just like Judon did. However, Godchaux went on to practice in spite of a contract situation that he claimed was disrespectful. Godchaux now has the security and guaranteed funds he was looking for. And everyone looks at Judon.
The Patriots are expected to practice at 11 a.m. ET on Thursday after having a day off on Wednesday. It is unclear if Judon will miss a third straight practice or return to the team.
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