New England continues their desire to maintain continuity along the defensive lines. As part of that project, Patriots defensive tackle Davon Godchaux has accepted a two-year extension deal of up to $12 million.
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported the news on Wednesday, according to a source. Rapoport added that the contract includes $16.5 million in guaranteed money.
Godchaux is the running-stuffing specialist for a New England defense that finished fourth in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per match (93.2 last season). The 6-foot-3, 330-pounder delivered 56 tackles, two tackles for loss, one quarterback hit and a fumble save in 2023. He started in 17 matches and preserved his consistent presence for the Patriots defense.
Davon was nearing the end of his contract and expressed his desire for a new deal this year by skipping the club’s offseason program. The 29-year-old arrived at training camp but had yet to join practice before Wednesday’s extension news.
New England spent most of this offseason res-signing players that jeopardized a defense that ranked seventh in the NFL in 2023 (301.6 YPG), including defensive lineman Christian Barmore, outside linebacker Anfernee Jennings, outside linebacker Josh Uche, and safeties Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers.
Next order of business for the team will be fulfilling Matt Judon’s request for a new contract; an issue that seemed resolved early in the week.
With Godchaux secured, the Patriots can now focus on maintaining Jerod Mayo’s unit as he enters his first campaign as head coach.
