The New England Patriots are ushering in a new era under head coach Mike Vrabel, who was hired this offseason. Their early moves in NFL free agency show a clear focus and direction, beginning with a deal for veteran linebacker Harold Landry III, who played for Vrabel with the Tennessee Titans.
Less than 24 hours later, the Patriots secured two more major agreements, adding linebacker Robert Spillane and star cornerback Carlton Davis, a former Super Bowl champion. Davis' deal is expected to be for three years, $60 million, with $34.5 million guaranteed.
Davis was drafted in 2018 by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he won a Lombardi Trophy alongside the legendary Tom Brady. After leaving Tampa Bay following the 2023 season, Davis spent the 2024 season with the Detroit Lions. He played a crucial role for a Lions team that secured the No. 1 overall seed in the NFC heading into the playoffs.
CB Carlton Davis agrees to 3-year, $60M deal with the Patriots. (via @TomPelissero) pic.twitter.com/n2hxuIHrJk
— NFL (@NFL) March 10, 2025
Last season, Carlton Davis started 13 games for the Lions, recording 56 tackles, 11 pass deflections, two interceptions, and two tackles for loss. Over the course of his seven-year NFL career, he has totaled 380 tackles, 84 pass deflections, 14 tackles for loss, and 11 interceptions.
Davis was one of the most sought-after cornerbacks on the market, and the Patriots have now made three major additions to their defensive unit. With plenty of cap space remaining, many believe the Patriots' next move should focus on improving their offense, which is in dire need of weapons for quarterback Drake Maye, who will be entering his second year with the team.
Related: Bengals Make Major $33 Million Move Amid Trey Hendrickson's Trade Speculation
Copyright 2025 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved.
This story was originally published March 10, 2025 at 12:34 PM.