Sign up for the Today newsletter
Get everything you need to know to start your day, delivered right to your inbox every morning.
Patriots reportedly give veteran defensive player permission to seek trade
"The veteran is likely on the move given the team’s defensive scheme shift."
Davon Godchaux’s tenure in Foxborough might be coming to a close.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Patriots have granted the veteran defensive tackle permission to seek a trade this offseason.
“There has been contact with interested teams, and the veteran is likely on the move given the team’s defensive scheme shift,” Rapoport noted on X.
As the Patriots reshuffle their defensive strategy under Mike Vrabel in 2025, Godchaux’s value as a nose tackle might wane, especially when also factoring in his $8.3 million cap hit.
If the Patriots trade the 30-year-old defensive lineman, they could save $6.7 million against the cap, giving them another hefty chunk of change on top of the already NFL-leading $128 million in cap space that the team currently boasts.
Advertisement:
One of several signings struck by New England during a busy offseason in 2021, Godchaux has been a steady presence at the line of scrimmage for the Patriots. He recorded 24 tackles this past season.
A veteran in New England’s locker room, Godchaux routinely called out teammates during last year’s 4-13 campaign. He labeled some of the team’s play as “selfish” following a road loss to the 49ers.
Even if a two-gap player like Godchaux may not hold as much value in New England under Vrabel, he could be a coveted asset for a team looking to upgrade their own defensive line.
Advertisement:
Godchaux established himself as a durable player with the Patriots. He did not miss a single game over his four seasons in Foxborough.
Godchaux still has two years remaining on his contract, which was reworked last offseason as part of an extension that included $16.5 million in guaranteed money.
To comment, please create a screen name in your profile
To comment, please verify your email address
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com